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What To Do After a Slip and Fall in California?

After a slip and fall, your first priority is your safety and health. If possible, report the incident to the property owner or manager and request that an incident report be created. Take photos of the hazard, your injuries, and the surrounding area. Collect names and contact information from any witnesses.

What If the Fall Happened on a Sidewalk or Public Property?

Falls on public property — including city sidewalks, parks, government buildings, and public parking lots — involve special rules in California. You typically must file a government tort claim within 6 months of the incident, which is much shorter than the standard statute of limitations. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your claim.

Should You Talk to the Insurance Adjuster?

Insurance adjusters may contact you shortly after a fall and seem friendly, but their goal is to minimize the company's liability. They may ask for a recorded statement, request that you sign medical authorization forms, or offer a quick settlement. Anything you say in a recorded statement can be used to reduce or deny your claim.

What If You Need Medical Care or Surgery Later?

Some slip and fall injuries — particularly fractures, head injuries, and back injuries — may require ongoing treatment or surgery. Gaps in medical treatment can be used by insurance companies to argue that your injuries aren't serious.