Petaluma Slip and Fall Lawyer

A slip and fall accident can be dramatic and jarring. One moment you are going about your day, and the next you may be facing broken bones, head trauma, or other injuries that change your ability to work, move comfortably, and live independently. Medical bills, lost wages, and physical pain often follow, leaving you uncertain about your next steps. A Petaluma slip and fall lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you toward the compensation you deserve.

That is where we come in. With over 20 years of experience handling injury and wrongful death claims, we have secured over $10 million for our clients. As your Petaluma slip and fall lawyer, we at Henderson Law will bring that same standard of excellence to your case.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

Understanding how these accidents occur can help identify whether negligence played a role. Some of the most frequent causes include:

  • Wet or freshly mopped floors without warning signs,
  • Uneven pavement or broken sidewalks,
  • Loose rugs or unsecured carpets,
  • Poorly lit stairwells or walkways,
  • Spilled food or liquid in restaurants and stores,
  • Cables or cords stretched across walkways,
  • Unsafe construction zones without barriers, and
  • Missing or broken handrails on stairs.

Each of these hazards represents a preventable danger. When property owners or managers overlook basic safety measures, the consequences fall on unsuspecting visitors. If you encountered conditions like these and suffered an injury, you deserve answers and accountability.

Injuries That May Result

In our work as slip and fall accident lawyers, we often see injuries that require hospitalization, surgery, and long-term rehabilitation. Common injuries include:

  • Fractures, particularly in wrists, ankles, and hips;
  • Traumatic brain injuries from striking the head;
  • Spinal cord injuries that can lead to lasting mobility issues;
  • Torn ligaments and severe sprains;
  • Back and neck injuries requiring ongoing treatment; and
  • Cuts and lacerations from sharp objects or broken glass.

These injuries can disrupt employment, caregiving responsibilities, and the ability to participate in daily life. The financial cost compounds the physical toll, with medical bills mounting quickly. When you work with us, we gather the medical evidence necessary to show the true extent of your losses and fight for full compensation.

Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall

What you do immediately after a slip and fall can make a significant difference in your case. We advise you to:

  • Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor;
  • Report the incident to the property owner or manager and request a copy of the report;
  • Take photographs of the hazard, your injuries, and the surrounding area;
  • Collect names and contact information of any witnesses;
  • Preserve the shoes and clothing you were wearing, as they may serve as evidence; and
  • Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies before consulting an attorney.

These actions help establish a record of what happened and strengthen your claim for compensation.

How Slip and Fall Accident Lawyers Prove Liability

California law requires more than just showing that you fell on someone else’s property. To succeed, we must demonstrate that the property owner or occupier acted negligently. This means proving that:

  • A dangerous condition existed on the property,
  • The property owner knew or should have known about the hazard,
  • The owner failed to repair or adequately warn visitors, and
  • The dangerous condition caused your injury.

Our team investigates each case thoroughly. We may collect photographs, video surveillance, witness statements, and maintenance records. We often consult with safety experts who can explain how the hazard violated basic property management standards. By building a detailed record, we work to strengthen your claim and position you for a meaningful recovery.

Compensation Victims Can Receive

A slip and fall case is not just about covering your hospital bills. It is about securing the resources you need to move forward. Depending on the facts of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses, including future treatment and rehabilitation;
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity if you cannot return to work;
  • Pain and suffering caused by physical injuries;
  • Emotional distress from trauma or reduced quality of life;
  • Out-of-pocket expenses for transportation, medication, or equipment; and
  • Costs of in-home care or modifications to your home if needed.

Slip and fall lawyers help you recover the compensation you need to move forward. At Henderson Law, we calculate the immediate and long-term costs of your injuries when we take on your case. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by ignoring future needs. We counter that with evidence and advocacy designed to protect your financial stability.

Comparative Negligence

California follows a system known as pure comparative negligence, which permits you to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. Typically, however, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. 

For example, if a jury finds that you were 20 percent responsible because you were distracted while walking, you can still recover 80 percent of your total damages. 

We understand how insurance companies use comparative negligence to reduce settlements. 

As your slip and fall attorney, we push back with evidence showing that unsafe property conditions created the real danger.

Slip and Fall Claim Time Limits

California law imposes strict deadlines on personal injury claims. The statute of limitations generally gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If a government entity owns the property where the fall occurred, the time frame is even shorter, often just six months to file a government claim. 

Missing these deadlines can bar you from pursuing compensation altogether. Acting quickly not only protects your rights but also ensures that evidence is preserved and witnesses’ memories remain fresh.

Working with a Slip and Fall Injury Lawyer

You might be hesitant about reaching out to a personal injury lawyer to start pursuing compensation because you don’t know what to expect from the process. That’s completely understandable. We understand that most of our clients have never been through anything like this before. Here are the typical steps you can expect:

  • Consultation. We begin every case with a detailed consultation. During this meeting, we review what happened, gather documentation, and outline potential legal strategies.
  • Investigation. We investigate the scene, speak with witnesses, and obtain relevant records. 
  • Negotiation. We negotiate with insurance companies, using the evidence we gathered to support the strongest claim possible.
  • Litigation, if needed. We are also prepared to take cases to trial when necessary. Our record of success in court sends a clear message to insurers that lowball offers will not suffice. 

At Henderson Law, we prioritize keeping you informed and empowered during every stage of the process.

Contact Henderson Law Today

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a slip and fall accident, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. At Henderson Law, we bring decades of experience, proven results, and genuine care to every case. We understand the stakes and, as your Petaluma slip and fall lawyer, we fight for you with skill and persistence.Michael Henderson’s recognition as a member of the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Injury Trial Lawyers underscores the experience and results we bring to every case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve and restoring peace of mind.