You never expect a simple trip to the store or a night out to end with an injury. Yet slip and fall accidents happen all the time, often because a wet floor was left unattended. In those moments, it’s easy to feel confused, embarrassed, and unsure about what to do next.
At Lipari & Deiter, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with a sudden injury, and even harder to understand your rights or determine who may be responsible. Our team works with people across South Jersey every day, helping them make sense of their situation and take the steps needed to protect their rights.
If you were hurt after slipping on a wet floor, it’s important to know you may have options. Lipari & Deiter is here to walk you through what you need to know and what actions can make a real difference in your recovery.
When Property Owners Are Responsible
Property owners, business managers, and others responsible for maintaining public spaces have a legal duty to keep those areas reasonably safe. That includes making sure floors are dry, clean, and free of slipping hazards.
When someone falls because of a wet floor, the key legal question is often whether the property owner knew—or should have known—about the dangerous condition and failed to fix it.
A business might be held responsible if:
- A spill was left on the floor without being cleaned up
- Staff mopped but didn’t put up a “Wet Floor” warning sign
- Leaks from refrigerators or roofs were ignored
- Rain or snow collected at entrances without mats or barriers
These are all examples of how a failure to maintain safe conditions can lead to liability under New Jersey premises liability law.
Property owners and businesses don’t always admit when they’ve made a mistake. Sometimes they argue that they didn’t know about the hazard or claim they cleaned it just moments before the fall. That’s why gathering evidence and knowing your rights can be so important after an accident.
If you fell because someone didn’t take basic safety measures, you may have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other losses.
Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall
Knowing what to do after a fall can make a big difference later if you decide to file a claim. Here are a few important steps:
- Report the Incident: Let a manager, supervisor, or employee know about the fall right away. Ask for a copy of any written report if available.
- Document the Scene: Take photos or videos showing the wet floor, nearby surroundings, and any visible injuries.
- Seek Medical Care: Even if you think you're okay, it’s important to get checked out. Some injuries can show up hours or days later.
- Talk to Witnesses: If anyone saw what happened, get their contact information.
- Be Careful Speaking to Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters often try to get you to say things that could hurt your claim. It’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer first.
At Lipari & Deiter, we help clients take the right steps from the start, building strong claims while they focus on healing.
Where Slip and Fall Accidents Often Happen
Slip and falls caused by wet floors are common in a variety of places, including:
- Grocery stores and supermarkets
- Hotels, restaurants, and casinos in Atlantic City
- Shopping malls, medical offices, and office buildings
- Apartment complexes, nursing homes, parking lots, and public walkways
Wherever it happens, the important thing is that property owners have a responsibility to address hazards—and if they don't, they can be held accountable.
Common Injuries from Slip and Fall Accidents
Falls caused by wet floors can lead to a range of injuries, some of which may not seem serious at first. Some of the more common injuries include:
- Sprains and strains
- Broken bones, especially wrists, arms, or hips
- Head injuries and concussions
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Cuts, bruises, and soft tissue damage
Even injuries that seem minor right away can result in lasting pain, mounting medical bills, and time missed from work. That’s why it’s so important to take any fall seriously and seek medical attention promptly.
Why Legal Help Matters
Slip and fall claims aren’t always as simple as they might seem. Businesses and insurance companies often push back, arguing that the hazard wasn’t obvious or that you weren’t paying attention.
Proving that a property owner was negligent requires strong evidence and a careful understanding of New Jersey’s laws. That’s why having a lawyer on your side can make a real difference. At Lipari & Deiter, we know what it takes to investigate these cases, gather the right evidence, and fight for fair compensation on your behalf.
Injured in a Slip and Fall? Contact Lipari & Deiter Today
If you’ve been injured after slipping on a wet floor in Pleasantville, Atlantic City, Marlton, Cherry Hill, Galloway, Vineland, Deptford, Camden, or another South Jersey community, getting the right advice early can make all the difference. The attorneys at Lipari & Deiter are here to listen, answer your questions, and help you figure out your next steps.
Reach out today for a free consultation. There’s no pressure—just straightforward guidance from a team that’s ready to stand by your side.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. Every case is different, and the laws governing slip and fall claims can be complex. If you have been injured and have questions about your legal rights, you should consult directly with an attorney. Reading this blog does not create an attorney-client relationship with Lipari & Deiter.