In California, anyone who owns property—whether it’s a private home, business, or even government land—must keep it safe for visitors. This legal duty means they have to fix or warn about hidden dangers like slippery floors, broken stairs, or loose wires. If you get hurt because they ignored a hazard, you can sue them to pay for your doctor bills, lost work, and pain.
6 things to do If you trip and fall inside a store or business:
1. Get checked by a doctor – Even if it feels minor, go to urgent care or your doctor that same day. The doctor’s note proves the fall hurt you.
2. Tell the manager – Walk up and say exactly what made you fall (spill, ripped carpet, box in the aisle). Ask them to fill out an accident report and give you a copy. Write down the manager’s name if they won’t.
3. Take photos & video – Use your phone: the hazard (spill, crack, object), where you fell, your injuries (bruises, cuts, torn clothes). Get close-ups and wide shots.
4. Get witness info – Ask anyone who saw it for their name + phone number. Write down what they say.
5. Save the shoes and clothes you wore (don’t wash them). Keep all medical bills and receipts.
6. Notify the business in writing – Within a few days, send a short letter (email or certified mail) to the store owner: Don’t sign papers or talk on the phone with their insurance until you speak to a lawyer. Do it fast—videos get erased!
What types of Workers’ Compensation benefits can I get in California?
Medical Care – This includes coverage of medical bills such as visits to a doctor, hospital services, x-rays, use of medical equipment, medication, lab tests, and more.
Temporary Disability Pay – These are payments you can receive if you are unable to work while recovering from your injury.
Permanent Disability Pay – This form of payment is given to individuals who are unable to fully recover from their injuries and now have to deal with some sort of impairment for the rest of their lives.
Wrongful Death Benefits – If a workplace illness or injury results in the death of an employee, their dependents can file a claim to receive compensation.
Supplemental Job Displacement – If you are unable to go back to the place you previously worked or to the job you were previously assigned, you can request benefits to assist in your retraining and placement.
Mileage for Treatment – The costs to travel to and from your medical visits may be covered. According to recent laws, if your injury was sustained on or after 1/1/2025, you can be paid $0.67 per mile traveled.
