Why Slip and Falls Happen So Often in California: Common Causes and Legal Options

By Timothy Hobbs

  |  

Injury Claims

  |  

Last Modified on Dec 04, 2025

Across dense urban areas in California, like Historic Claremont, The Village, and Padua Hills, there are many potential hazards that can cause someone to fall and become injured. If you or a loved one recently suffered a serious slip, you may be wondering why slip and falls happen so often in California. Understanding the cause of a fall-related injury is an important first step for anyone seeking compensation through an injury claim.

Top Causes of Slips and Falls in California

Falls are the leading cause of injuries, both fatal and non-fatal, for older adults in California. In 2023, falls among this age group led to 2,521 deaths, 114,427 hospitalizations, and 317,582 emergency department visits, according to the California Department of Public Health.

Many of these incidents stem from hazards. Property owners have a duty to place signs around wet floors and to address uneven flooring before it causes an injury. Slippery floors are a persistent problem in California’s grocery stores, restaurants, and apartment complexes.

Poor lighting in stairwells, parking garages, and hallways can make it difficult to spot changes in elevation or obstacles. Broken handrails, loose steps, and cracked walkways also contributed to visitor injuries. When drainage issues or moss coverings create slick surfaces, they can cause serious hazards. Other causes include cluttered walkways, loose rugs, and a lack of guard rails and grab bars.

Common Injuries That Result from a Slip or Fall

Slip and fall accidents can cause a wide range of injuries that leave injured parties seeking medical treatment at Claremont Medical Center, Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center, or elsewhere in the region. Broken bones are a common type of injury, particularly fractures of the wrist, arm, ankle, hip, or collarbone. Head injuries also result from falls. Brain trauma can lead to complications and long, uncertain recoveries.

Soft-tissue injuries, such as sprains, torn ligaments, and strained muscles, can affect the knees, shoulders, and lower back. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to herniated discs or compression fractures that often cause lasting pain and mobility issues. Older adults often suffer some of the most serious forms of harm and reduced independence as a result of falls.

What Are My Legal Options?

If you were injured on someone else’s property, you may be eligible for compensation under the state’s premises liability laws. Property owners have a duty of care when it comes to addressing hazards. They are also responsible for hazards that they should have reasonably known about.

When you work with an injury attorney, your claim may lead to compensation through negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance carrier or direct action in court. A settlement can address the tangible losses, such as medical bills and lost wages, as well as the intangible harm, such as pain and suffering, that you suffered.

Why You Should Hire?

Statewide estimates find that nearly 1.5 million older Californians fall each year. If you or a loved one suffered a fall on someone else’s property due to the landowner’s negligence, you may be eligible for compensation. When you hire a slip and fall lawyer, you gain the support of an attorney who understands California slip and fall laws and how they affect your case.

With support from a knowledgeable slip and fall attorney, you can gather the right evidence to build a strong claim that leads to maximum compensation. Attorneys are skilled investigators, negotiators, and, when needed, litigators who are focused on securing the compensation that you are owed.

FAQs

What Makes a Slip and Fall Accident So Dangerous?

What makes a slip and fall accident so dangerous is the unexpected nature of the injury and the impact on the body. Slips can lead to broken bones, head trauma, and other serious forms of harm. Some individuals strike their head during incidents, which can lead to further harm. Injuries can require extensive hospitalization and long recoveries.

What Is the Average Payout for a Slip and Fall in California?

The payout for a slip and fall in California varies widely. The final settlement for an individual case typically reflects the extent of the plaintiff’s injuries and the degree of negligence on the part of the property owner. To prove a claim, the injured party and their attorney must present evidence. Documentation showing both negligence and physical harm plays a critical role in shaping the final value of a settlement or favorable court verdict.

What Is the Leading Cause of Injuries in California?

Falls are a leading cause of injury in California. Adults of all ages can trip and become seriously injured when a property owner fails to address known hazards, such as slick floors, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting. Other common causes of injury in California include car collisions and accidents that involve pedestrians or bicyclists.

Can Anyone Suffer a Slip and Fall?

Yes. Anyone can suffer a slip and fall in California. The injuries happen in urban and rural areas. When a property owner fails to address a hazard, it can create a dangerous situation for visitors, guests, and customers. Older adults often face a high risk, but anyone of any age can suffer broken bones, head trauma, and other forms of harm due to a slip or fall. All it takes is a momentary loss of footing for a serious injury to occur.

Injured in a Fall? Contact Hobbs Law Group Today

The team of dedicated injury attorneys at Hobbs Law Group understands the stress and financial harm that can follow a slip and fall. Our team takes a client-centered approach to litigation by building relationships with our clients as we build strong cases. Since we focus on personal injury cases, we bring many years of experience and a track record of success in court.

Our team of dedicated injury lawyers has received numerous awards for their success in court, including Rising Star, Top 50 Verdicts in California, Top 10 Personal Injury Verdicts in California, and other recognitions.

If you are ready to work with a law firm that is focused on getting results, we welcome you to contact our office today to schedule your consultation so you can gain the high-quality legal representation that your case deserves.