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Slip And Fall
A 'slip and fall' is a type of personal injury claim where someone is hurt after slipping, tripping, or falling on someone else's property.
What it actually is
This term describes a premises liability claim, meaning the property owner or occupier may be legally responsible for injuries if they failed to maintain a safe condition or warn of a hidden hazard. The case typically revolves around whether the owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and had a reasonable time to fix it.
Why it matters in your case
If you are the injured person, you must prove the property owner was negligent—not just that you fell. If you are the property owner, the court will look at whether you acted reasonably to prevent the fall or gave adequate warning.
The common misunderstanding
Many people think a slip and fall automatically means the property owner is liable, but the law requires proof that the owner was at fault. Falling on ice in a parking lot, for example, may not result in liability if the owner took reasonable steps to clear it.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court — we hold Texas, federal and Washington court rules word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state — procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.