Slip and Fall Accidents: When Can You Sue?
If you slipped and fell on someone else’s property, then you might be able to seek compensation for the injury. Property owners can be held liable for accidents and injuries, but only in certain circumstances. You can only sue for a slip and fall accident when you can prove that it happened due to the property owner’s negligence. You also have a limited amount of time to file a case.
If you want to take the case to court, you’ll need to gather evidence, like medical records, photographs, and witness testimonies. You’ll also need to consult a personal injury lawyer about the type of damages and how much to claim. Here’s what you need to know about suing for a slip and fall accident in Arizona.
When Can You Sue for a Slip and Fall?
In Arizona, the burden of proof for personal injury lawsuits falls on the person submitting the claim to court. This means it is up to you and your attorney to prove that you deserve compensation for a slip and fall.
But first of all, you need to make sure your injury qualifies for a lawsuit. Without meeting the legal requirements, a personal injury case is not possible.
You can sue for a slip and fall accident when:
- The injury occurred due to the property owner’s negligence. This means they understood there was a danger and did not do anything about it.
This can look like: Uneven pavement that is unmarked, walkways covered in slippery materials like sand or loose gravel, or inadequate lighting.
- You are filing within the statute of limitations. In Arizona, you must file suit within two years of the injury for accidents that happened on private or corporate-owned properties. If the property is government-owned, the statute of limitations is only 180 days.
If your injury checks both of these boxes, you need to consult a lawyer who will help you gather the rest of the evidence required by the court.
What the Court Needs to Know About Slip and Fall Cases
- Specifics about the incident:
- Why were you on the property?
- Were you invited to the property?
- Were there any warning signs around?
- What were you doing before and during the incident?
- The amount you are seeking in damages:
- Always consult a lawyer about the type of damages and the appropriate amount to claim. Asking for too much or too little could harm your case.
- Keep copies of receipts and medical documents that pertain to the injury. They will help the judge determine if the amount you asked for is fair.
- Evidence of negligence:
- Photos or video of the area, the accident, and the injuries
- Witness testimony of the accident
Personal Injury Lawyer in Scottsdale, Arizona
If you are thinking about filing a civil suit, the first thing you should do is find an attorney who can help you build a strong case so that you get the compensation you deserve.
When you need a personal injury lawyer for a slip and fall accident in Scottsdale, contact the Van Norman Law Firm. With over 25 years of experience, we are the best personal injury law team in the area. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/10/25). Photo by Lucian Alexe on Unsplash