Can I File A Claim If My Slip And Fall Happened At Work?

You’re walking through the breakroom when suddenly—your feet slide out from under you. A wet floor, no warning sign, and now you’re in pain. Workplace slip and fall accidents are alarmingly common across California. 

But what happens next? Can you file claims or sue? Do you only rely on workers’ comp? This article explains your options under California personal injury law, and how a trusted California personal injury lawyer can help—especially when a hazardous condition is involved.

Slip and Fall Accidents Are Common at Work

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, slip-and-fall accidents are among the top causes of workplace injuries. These incidents happen in nearly every industry, from construction to healthcare and office settings.

Many of these injuries could be prevented if employers upheld their duty of care to maintain safe conditions. If they fail, they may be liable under premises liability laws.

Common hazards in the workplace:

• Wet or uneven floors
• Poor lighting
• Unmarked spills or cluttered walkways
• Unsafe stairs or railings

Such dangers increase risks for employees and visitors, including those involved in pedestrian accidents on business properties.

Workers’ Compensation Is Your First Step

If you’re injured at work, workers’ compensation usually covers basic recovery, regardless of who was at fault. It includes:

• Emergency medical treatment
• Lost wages (partial)
• Rehabilitation and therapy
• Coordination with medical providers

However, this system doesn’t compensate for pain and suffering nor allow claims against third parties or grossly negligent employers.

When Can You File a Personal Injury Claim?

A personal injury claim may be available if your slip and fall was caused by someone other than your employer or by egregious neglect. In such cases, the injured person may pursue additional compensation under premises liability law.

You might be able to file claims if:

• A contractor or vendor created the hazard
• The property owner failed to correct known dangers
• Defective flooring or lighting caused the fall
• Your employer acted recklessly (e.g., ignored repeated reports of slippery floors)

In these cases, a slip and fall lawyer will investigate whether a third party is responsible and help protect your claim from being minimized by an insurance adjuster.

What Can You Recover in a Slip and Fall Claim or Lawsuit?

If a personal injury claim is allowed, you may be eligible for broader damages than workers’ comp offers.

Every case is unique. Speaking with our slip and fall lawyer ensures you aren’t settling for less than you deserve.

Important Legal Deadlines and Requirements

Filing Deadlines

Understanding California’s statute of limitations is crucial for protecting your rights:

• Workers’ Compensation Claims: You have one year from the date of injury to file a workers’ compensation claim.
• Personal Injury Claims: You have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit against third parties.
• Government Entity Claims: If a government entity is involved, you must file an administrative claim within six months of the injury. If the claim is rejected, you have six months from the rejection date to file a lawsuit in court.

Statute of Limitations Tolling

In certain circumstances, the statute of limitations can be “tolled” (paused), including:

• When the defendant is out of state.
• During an ongoing workers’ compensation claim for the same injury
• If the injured person is a minor or legally incapacitated

Recent Legal Changes (2025)

Several critical legal developments affect workplace injury cases. One notable change for personal injury claims is that the increased auto insurance minimums under Senate Bill 1107, effective January 1, 2025, provide greater financial resources for accident victims.

Why Legal Help Matters

Navigating legal claims—especially with overlapping workers’ comp and personal injury law—is complicated. Our award-winning personal injury attorneys can:

• Gather evidence from the accident scene
• Review your employer’s safety protocols
• Connect you to appropriate medical providers
• Ensure head trauma or long-term injuries are properly valued
• Meet California’s statute of limitations to preserve your case

At Farahi Law Firm in Hawthorne, we handle even the most complex slip and fall accident cases with care and dedication.

Common Questions About Slip and Fall Claims