How to Prove Negligence in a Slip and Fall Injury Case
What Counts as Negligence After a Fall?
Not every fall is someone’s fault — but when a property owner fails to maintain a safe environment, and that failure causes your injury, it may be considered negligence under Oklahoma law. To win a slip and fall case, you have to show that someone else’s carelessness caused the hazard that hurt you.
Here’s how our team at Aldridge Teasdale helps clients prove fault after a serious fall.
Step 1: Document the Scene Immediately
Photos and videos are some of the most powerful tools in a fall case. If you’re physically able, take clear pictures of:
- The area where you fell (including any water, clutter, ice, or uneven flooring)
- Warning signs (or the lack of them)
- Lighting conditions
- Your shoes and clothing
If you weren’t able to take photos at the time, try to return quickly or ask a friend to do it for you — before anything gets cleaned or fixed.
Step 2: Report the Incident
Always report your fall to the store manager, landlord, or property supervisor before leaving the premises. Request a copy of the incident report, or write down the name and title of whoever you spoke with.
Step 3: Seek Medical Attention — Even for Minor Pain
Falls often cause injuries that don’t show symptoms right away, especially in the case of soft-tissue damage, concussions, or internal bruising. Seeing a doctor immediately helps create a medical record tied directly to the incident — and protects your health.
Step 4: Preserve Witness Statements
If anyone saw the fall happen, ask for their name and contact information. Witnesses can confirm the condition of the property and help support your version of events if the business denies wrongdoing.
Step 5: Consult a Lawyer Before Giving a Statement
Insurance companies often reach out quickly — not to help you, but to limit their liability. They may try to get a recorded statement, push a quick settlement, or suggest the fall was your fault.
Before signing anything or speaking with an adjuster, talk to a slip and fall attorney who can protect your rights and guide you through next steps.
What We Have to Prove
In a slip and fall case, our legal team needs to show that:
- A dangerous condition existed (e.g., wet floor, loose tile, uneven step)
- The property owner knew — or should have known — about the danger
- They failed to fix it or provide adequate warning
- You were injured as a result
This often involves surveillance footage, staff schedules, maintenance logs, and depositions — which is why acting quickly can make a big difference.
Let Us Help You Build Your Case
At Aldridge Teasdale, we know how to gather the right evidence and hold negligent property owners accountable. If you were injured in a fall, we’ll evaluate your situation, explain your options, and fight for the recovery you deserve.
Schedule your free consultation with a real lawyer today — no cost, no pressure, just honest answers from a team that cares.
