Slip and Fall Compensation in Alberta: What Injured People Need to Know

If you slipped and fell in Alberta — whether at a store, on a sidewalk, in a parking lot, or inside a building — you may be entitled to compensation. But understanding how compensation works, what you can claim, and what affects your settlement isn’t always straightforward.

This guide explains the types of compensation available in Alberta, how slip and fall claims are evaluated, and what every injured person needs to know.

How Slip and Fall Claims Work in Alberta

In Alberta, slip and fall claims are governed by the Occupiers’ Liability Act.
An “occupier” includes anyone who:

• Owns the property
• Controls the property
• Manages or maintains the property

What Compensation Can You Claim After a Slip and Fall in Alberta?

Slip and fall victims in Alberta may be able to claim several categories of damages. Your compensation will depend on your injury, recovery, and how the accident affects your life.

Here’s what you may be entitled to.

✅ 1. Pain and Suffering (General Damages)

This covers the physical pain, emotional distress, and overall impact your injury has on your daily life.

Courts consider:

• Severity of the injury
• Length of recovery
• Long-term limitations
• Chronic pain
• How the injury affects hobbies and relationships

Canada has a cap on pain and suffering damages, but most Alberta cases fall below that limit.

✅ 2. Lost Wages

If your injury prevents you from working, you may be owed:

• Full wage loss
• Partial wage loss
• Missed overtime
• Lost bonuses or commissions

You can claim pay lost from the date of the accident to your return to work.

✅ 3. Future Loss of Income or Earning Capacity

If your injuries impact your long-term ability to work — even slightly — you may be owed compensation for:

• Inability to return to your old job
• Reduced earning capacity
• Career changes caused by the injury
• Early retirement due to health limitations

This is often one of the largest parts of an Alberta slip and fall settlement.

✅ 4. Medical and Rehabilitation Costs

This includes treatment that helps you recover or manage long-term symptoms:

• Physiotherapy
• Chiropractic care
• Massage therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Mental health support
• Pain specialists
• Medical aids (braces, crutches, boots, walkers)

If your benefits don’t cover these costs, you can claim reimbursement.

✅ 5. Out-of-Pocket Expenses

These expenses add up quickly:

• Parking and transportation
• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter medication
• Bandages, supports, braces
• Home equipment
• Mobility aids

Keep every receipt — these can be claimed.

✅ 6. Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Support

If your injury makes daily tasks difficult, you may be owed compensation for help with:

• Cleaning
• Cooking
• Laundry
• Yardwork
• Snow removal
• Childcare

These costs can be temporary or long-term.

What Factors Affect Slip and Fall Compensation in Alberta?

Several factors determine how much your case is worth:

1. Severity of the Injury

Fractures, torn ligaments, concussions, head injuries, spinal injuries, and chronic pain often lead to higher compensation.

2. Ability to Work

The greater the impact on your earnings — short-term or long-term — the higher your potential compensation.

3. Medical Evidence

Strong documentation is essential:

• Doctor’s assessments
• Diagnostic imaging
• Treatment records
• Specialist reports
• Long-term prognosis

4. Liability

Was the property owner negligent?

Examples include:

• Wet floors
• Unshoveled snow or ice
• Uneven pavement
• Poor lighting
• Debris or spills
• Broken stairs or handrails

Clear evidence of negligence increases settlement value.

5. Contributory Negligence

If you are found partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by that percentage.

Examples include:

• Not paying attention
• Wearing improper footwear
• Ignoring visible hazards

Your lawyer will work to minimize these reductions.

6. Impact on Daily Life

Compensation may increase when your injury affects:

• Household tasks
• Sleep
• Driving
• Mobility
• Hobbies
• Family responsibilities

Common Slip and Fall Locations in Alberta

Slip and falls frequently occur in:

• Stores like Costco, Walmart, Safeway, and Superstore
• Parking lots and sidewalks
• Restaurants and cafes
• Apartment or condo buildings
• Workplaces
• Malls and shopping centres
• Public walkways
• Hospitals and clinics

Each location has different maintenance expectations and liability rules.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents in Alberta

Typical hazards include:

• Snow and ice buildup
• Slippery store floors
• Leaking fridges/freezers
• Spilled liquids
• Uneven sidewalks
• Poor lighting
• Obstructed walkway
• Cracked steps or tiles

How Long Do You Have to Bring a Slip and Fall Claim in Alberta?

While Alberta doesn’t have the same strict 10-day or 60-day notice rules as Ontario, you should still act quickly.

Deadlines to keep in mind:

• Most claims: 2-year limitation period
• Municipal property incidents: Require prompt notice (varies by municipality)
• Private property: Notice should be given as soon as possible

A lawyer will help you meet these deadlines and preserve evidence.

What to Do After a Slip and Fall in Alberta

Take these steps to protect your claim:

1. Get medical care immediately
2. Take photos/videos of the hazard
3. Report the incident to the business or property owner
4. Get witness names
5. Keep your footwear
6. Make notes about what happened
7. Save receipts and medical records
8. Speak to a lawyer before talking to insurance companies

Acting quickly strengthens your case.

When Should You Contact a Slip and Fall Lawyer in Alberta?

Contact a lawyer right away if:

• You were injured
• You missed work
• The insurer is pushing you to settle
• You’re unsure who is responsible
• The fall involved snow or ice
• Your symptoms are getting worse
• You may need long-term treatment

Free Consultation: Slip and Fall Compensation in Alberta

If you were injured in a slip and fall, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, our Alberta team can explain your rights and what your case may be worth.

• ✅ Free consultation
• ✅ No upfront fees
• ✅ Millions recovered for injured Canadians
• ✅ Canada’s most-reviewed personal injury and disability law firm

Speak to a Slip and Fall Lawyer in Alberta today.