What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in Canada

A slip and fall accident can leave you hurt, embarrassed, and unsure of what to do next. Whether it happened in a store, parking lot, apartment building, or on snow and ice, the steps you take after a fall can make a big difference in your recovery — and in your legal options.

This guide explains what to do immediately after a slip and fall, what not to do, and how to protect your rights anywhere in Canada.

✅ 1. Get Medical Attention Right Away

Your health comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor, walk-in clinic, or ER as soon as possible.

Why this matters:

• Injuries like concussions, fractures, and soft-tissue damage may not show up right away
• A medical report creates crucial documentation for insurance and legal claims
• Delays can be used against you by insurance companies

✅ 2. Report the Fall Immediately

Tell the property owner, manager, or staff what happened. Ask them to create an incident report and request a copy if possible.

Report to:

• Store employees or managers
• Mall or plaza security
• Landlords or building management
• Employers (if the fall happened at work)
• The municipality (if the fall happened on a sidewalk)

✅ 3. Take Photos and Videos of the Area

Slip and fall hazards can get cleaned up or repaired quickly. Photos taken right away can be the strongest evidence in your case.

Take pictures of:

• The hazard itself (ice, spill, uneven pavement, debris, poor lighting)
• The surrounding area
• Your shoes
• Weather conditions (snow, freezing rain, slush)
• Any warning signs (or lack of them)

If you’re unable to take photos, ask a friend, family member, or witness to help.

✅ 4. Keep Your Shoes and Clothing

Do not wash, fix, or throw out what you were wearing.

Footwear can be important evidence in slip and fall claims. Store your shoes in a safe place and don’t use them again until your lawyer advises you.

✅ 5. Collect Witness Names and Contact Information

If anyone saw your fall — or the hazard — their statements can help confirm what happened.

Ask for:

• Full name
• Phone number
• Email address

✅ 6. Write Down What Happened While It’s Fresh

Within a few hours of the fall, make notes about:

• The exact time and location
• What you slipped or tripped on
• Weather conditions
• Lighting conditions
• Who you spoke to and what they said
• The immediate symptoms you felt

✅ 7. Keep All Receipts and Records

Hold on to every document related to your injury:

• Medication costs
• Physiotherapy or chiropractic treatments
• Mobility aids
• Parking or transit
• Appointment receipts
• Any out-of-pocket expenses

These can be reimbursed in a slip and fall claim.

✅ 8. Avoid Speaking With the Insurance Company Without Legal Advice

The insurance adjuster may call quickly — sometimes the same day.

Be careful.

Adjusters often:

• Downplay injuries
• Suggest you were at fault
• Push for a quick, low settlement
• Ask questions designed to weaken your claim

⭐ 9. Talk to a Slip and Fall Lawyer as Soon as Possible

A lawyer can help you:

• Understand your rights
• Protect evidence
• Meet strict provincial notice deadlines
• Deal with the insurance company
• Calculate the full value of your claim
• Access treatment and rehabilitation
• Pursue long-term disability benefits if you can’t work

Provincial Deadlines You Need to Know

Slip and fall rules vary across Canada. Some deadlines are extremely short.

Ontario

• Snow or ice falls: 60-day written notice
• Municipal sidewalk falls: 10-day notice

Alberta

• General limitation periods apply
• Notice rules depend on the municipality and property type

British Columbia

• Governed by the BC Occupiers Liability Act
• Municipal notice deadlines may apply

If you’re unsure which rule applies, contact a lawyer immediately.

Common Slip and Fall Injuries in Canada

Slip and falls often lead to injuries such as:

• Broken bones
• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
• Soft-tissue injuries
• Back and neck injuries
• Spinal injuries
• Torn ligaments
• Chronic pain
• Reduced mobility

These can affect your ability to work, sometimes leading to long-term disability claims or appeals.

Can You Get Compensation After a Slip and Fall?

Yes — if unsafe property conditions caused your fall, you may be entitled to:

• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages
• Medical and rehabilitation costs
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Housekeeping or home support
• Long-term disability benefits

A lawyer will determine what applies in your situation.

When to Contact a Slip and Fall Lawyer

You should reach out for legal advice if:

• You’re injured
• The property owner denies responsibility
• The insurance company is pressuring you
• You’re not sure who is at fault
• You’ve missed work
• You may need long-term disability benefits

Early advice protects your rights.

Free Consultation: Talk to a Slip and Fall Lawyer Today

A slip and fall can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Help is available.

• ✅ 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 Today.