Summary
You can sue for a back injury after a slip and fall in California. Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe premises. If their negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation for medical care, lost wages, and pain.
One wrong step on a slick floor can change your life. A back injury after a slip and fall may seem minor at first, but it can lead to lasting pain, expensive medical bills, and a long road to recovery.
If your fall was caused by someone else’s negligence—like a store owner not cleaning up a spill—you might be eligible for compensation. In California, establishing liability requires understanding the legal “duty of care.”
Let’s take a look at your rights and see how a highly experienced back injury attorney in Panorama can support you in strengthening your case.
What Is the Duty of Care in California Slip and Fall Cases?
Under California law, all property owners have a duty of care—a legal obligation to keep their property safe and hazard-free for visitors. This means promptly cleaning spills, marking wet floors, repairing uneven surfaces, and providing adequate lighting.
If a property owner fails to meet this duty and you suffer a back injury after a slip and fall, you may be able to hold them liable under premises liability law. To win a claim, you must generally prove the following:
- The property owner owed you a duty of care.
- They breached that duty by acting negligently.
- Their negligence caused your back injury.
- You suffered damages as a result.
California Civil Code Section 1714 outlines this general responsibility to prevent harm. Jurors often assess the situation by asking: “What would a reasonable person have done?”
Why Back Injuries from Slip and Fall Accidents Should Not Be Ignored
Slip and fall accidents are one of the most common causes of spinal cord injuries. The CDC reports that approximately 1 million older adults are hospitalized yearly due to falls.
Back injuries may include:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal fractures
- Spinal stenosis
- Nerve damage
- Spinal cord damage
These can result in long-term radiating pain, muscle weakness, neck pain, and loss of mobility. Many victims need chiropractic care, physical therapy, or even orthopedic surgery.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall Back Injury
Immediate steps can make or break your claim. If you suffer a back injury after a slip and fall, follow this guide.
Take These Steps After a Fall:
- Seek medical attention immediately – Go to the emergency room to document your injuries.
- Report the accident – Notify the property manager or owner.
- Document the scene – Take photos and gather witness information.
- Follow your treatment plan – This may include pain medications, corrective care, or assistive devices.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney – A top-rated back injury attorney in Panorama can guide you through the process.
Common Treatments for Back Injuries After a Fall
Depending on the severity, treatments may include:
Treatment Type | Description |
Pain Management | Includes over-the-counter or prescription pain medications |
Physical Therapy | Helps restore movement and reduce back pain |
Chiropractic Care | Realigns the spinal disc or joints to reduce pressure |
Orthopedic Surgery | Required in severe cases involving spinal fractures |
Assistive Devices | Braces, walkers, or wheelchairs may be needed for mobility |
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
When you sue for a back injury after a slip and fall, potential damages may include:
- Medical expenses (including future care)
- Lost wages and future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
- Emergency room visits and specialist fees
- Insurance settlement for long-term disability
Why You Need a Legal Team Behind You
Navigating insurance claims and proving liability can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from spinal cord injuries. A skilled personal injury attorney can:
- Gather evidence and medical records
- Negotiate with the insurance companies
- Build a case around spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or nerve damage
- Represent you in court if necessary
Our legal team at Farahi Law Firm in Panorama has helped countless Californians recover the medical treatment and financial compensation they deserve.
FAQs: Back Injury After a Slip and Fall in California
California follows comparative negligence—you can still recover compensation, which may be reduced based on your share of the fault.
Yes, but government claims (like on a sidewalk) often have shorter deadlines—typically 6 months.
Your health insurance may cover initial treatment, but a legal claim ensures the liable party covers medical care and other damages.
Delayed symptoms are common. See a doctor right away and consult a lawyer. However, remember that in California, injured parties have exactly two years from their accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. This time limit is non-negotiable—if you miss this deadline, you lose your right to pursue compensation through the courts.
Special Rules for Public Property: Different rules apply when accidents happen on government-owned property, such as city sidewalks, public buildings, or parks. You must submit a formal claim to the appropriate government agency within six months of your injury. Only after this administrative step can you proceed with a lawsuit.
Why time is crucial:
- Security footage gets deleted or recorded over
- Physical evidence at the accident scene changes
- Witness contact information becomes outdated
- Medical documentation requirements become more complex
The sooner you consult with a qualified personal injury attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case. An experienced lawyer can ensure all deadlines are met while you focus on your recovery.
Speak With a Panorama Personal Injury Attorney Today
Don’t ignore a back injury after a slip and fall. Whether your injury happened at a store, apartment complex, or sidewalk, you have rights. Farahi Law Firm’s experienced, top-rated back injury attorney in Panorama can evaluate your case, help you understand your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call now for a FREE consultation. Let us help you get the medical care you need and the money you deserve.
