After a slip or trip, your immediate safety and medical needs come first. If there is an emergency, contact emergency services and follow the instructions of qualified responders. Evidence gathering should never put you or someone else at risk.
Once you can do so safely, a clear record of the place, condition and timeline can help explain what happened. This checklist is for people preparing to discuss a Florida fall with an attorney; it does not determine whether a property owner is liable.
Record the location and what you observed
Note the business or property name, address, date, approximate time and the precise area where you fell. Describe what you personally saw, felt or heard. If you do not know what caused the fall, say that rather than guessing.
- Record the condition you believe was involved, such as liquid, a change in floor level or a damaged step.
- If it is safe and permitted, take photographs of the condition and a wider view showing its location.
- Include nearby lighting, signs and the route you were using where relevant.
- Keep original photographs and videos. Do not alter the scene, recreate the fall or put yourself in danger to gather evidence.
Separate your observations from information provided by other people. A later photograph may show a different condition, so keep its actual date and explain when it was taken.
Report the incident and keep the details
Notify an appropriate property representative when you are able. Ask how to obtain any incident or reference number and whether a copy of a report can be provided. Record the name or role of the person you spoke with and the time of the conversation.
Keep copies of written communications. If you are asked to sign a document, read it carefully and ask what it means. Seek advice if you are unsure about a release, authorization or proposed settlement.
Identify witnesses and possible video
If someone saw the incident and is willing to provide contact information, keep it with your notes. Do not coach anyone or ask them to agree with an account they did not observe.
Note cameras that may face the area. A camera does not establish that footage exists or that you can obtain it. Ask an attorney about appropriate preservation and access requests. Retention varies; do not rely on a general number of days or assume someone else has saved the recording.
Keep relevant records and belongings
Keep the shoes and clothing involved available and ask how they should be preserved. Avoid changing, repairing or discarding potentially relevant items before receiving guidance. Do not collect unknown substances or handle anything hazardous.
Organize records you already have, including medical visit information, bills, receipts, work absences and correspondence. Follow medical professionals' advice about care. This article does not set a treatment deadline or replace medical guidance.
Why the condition and timeline matter
A fall on someone else's property does not automatically establish liability. For a slip on a temporary foreign substance in a business establishment, section 768.0755, Florida Statutes, addresses proof that the business knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and should have acted. How long the condition existed or whether it occurred regularly can matter. Other conditions and settings may involve different rules.
An attorney can assess the facts, who controlled the area, the available evidence, injuries, coverage and possible defenses. Ask which legal deadlines or notice requirements apply to your particular situation. Do not calculate your deadline from a general article.
A short consultation checklist
- Where and when did the incident happen?
- What did you observe before and after the fall?
- Who received the report, and is there a reference number?
- Are photographs, witnesses or possible cameras identifiable?
- What records do you have, and which are still missing?
- Have you received correspondence, an offer or documents to sign?
You can ask for help even if you do not have every item. Missing a photograph or report does not by itself decide whether there is a claim.
Discuss a fall with our Plantation team
The Right Law Firm, P.A. evaluates slip-and-fall and premises liability matters from its Plantation office. Call 954-633-7744 or request a free consultation. Assistance is available in English and Spanish.
General information only. Every matter depends on its facts. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship; representation requires an agreement. Use an agreed secure method for confidential records rather than the public inquiry form.