Slip and fall accidents are among the most common types of personal injury claims in Canada. Whether you fall on an icy sidewalk, a wet grocery store floor, or uneven steps in a building, the injuries can be serious—leading to medical bills, time off work, and long-term pain.
If your fall occurred due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. But how do you go about filing a slip and fall claim? This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process to ensure your rights are protected.
Step 1: Get Medical Attention Immediately
Your health is the top priority. Even if the injury seems minor, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, like concussions or internal damage, may not show immediate symptoms.
Medical records are also critical evidence in your claim. They link your injury directly to the fall and help determine the extent of your damages.
Step 2: Report the Incident
Report the fall to the property owner, store manager, landlord, or whoever is responsible for the premises. Make sure the incident is officially documented, and ask for a copy of the report if possible.
For falls on municipal property (like sidewalks or city parks), you may be required to give written notice within 10 days under Ontario’s Municipal Act. Missing this deadline could jeopardize your claim.
Step 3: Collect Evidence
The success of your claim often depends on the quality of your evidence. Here’s what you should gather:
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Photos or videos of the scene (e.g., icy surface, spilled liquid, broken tiles)
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Pictures of your injuries
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Names and contact info of any witnesses
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The date, time, and location of the incident
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The type of footwear you were wearing
If the hazard was something that should have been fixed or warned about, your lawyer can use this information to argue negligence.
Step 4: Preserve All Documentation
Keep all records related to the incident, including:
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Medical bills
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Doctor’s notes and treatment plans
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Prescription receipts
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Time off work and loss of income details
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Any correspondence with insurance companies or the property owner
This documentation proves the financial impact of your injuries and helps calculate compensation.
Step 5: Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer London Ontario
Slip and fall cases can be complex. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer in London, Ontario will assess the strength of your claim, guide you through the legal process, and deal with insurance companies on your behalf.
They can also help determine:
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If the property owner was legally negligent
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What damages you may be entitled to (medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering)
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Whether your case is strong enough to negotiate a settlement or go to trial
Most personal injury lawyers in Ontario offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis—meaning you pay nothing unless you win compensation.
Step 6: File the Claim
Your lawyer will formally file the claim on your behalf. This includes:
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Preparing legal documents
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Notifying the responsible party (property owner, business, or municipality)
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Submitting evidence
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Negotiating with the insurance company
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Taking the case to court if necessary
Timeliness is important. In Ontario, the standard limitation period for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the incident.
Step 7: Settlement or Trial
Most slip and fall claims settle outside of court. Your lawyer will negotiate a fair settlement with the property owner’s insurance company based on:
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The strength of your evidence
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The severity of your injuries
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The total cost of your losses
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may recommend taking the case to court for a judge to decide.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Delaying medical treatment
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Failing to document the scene
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Missing legal deadlines
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Accepting a lowball settlement offer without legal advice
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Posting about the injury on social media, which can be used against you
Conclusion
Filing a slip and fall claim doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following the right steps—and working with an experienced personal injury lawyer in London, Ontario—you can pursue the compensation you deserve.
Whether the fall happened in a store, apartment complex, or public sidewalk, it’s essential to act quickly, gather evidence, and protect your legal rights.
Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident?
Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact a trusted personal injury lawyer London, Ontario today for a free consultation. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case will be.