Who’s Liable for a Slip and Fall in Ohio? Here’s What You Should Know
Slip and fall accidents might sound minor, but they can cause serious harm. Each year, thousands of Ohio residents suffer injuries due to unsafe conditions on public and private property—often through no fault of their own. These incidents can lead to mounting medical bills, lost wages, and long recovery periods. So, who’s responsible when you get hurt on someone else’s property?
At Larry Slagle Law, we help clients navigate the legal aftermath of slip and fall accidents. Here’s what you need to know about liability, your rights, and the steps to take after an injury.
What Counts as a Slip and Fall?
A slip and fall injury occurs when someone trips, slips, or falls due to a dangerous or hazardous condition on another person’s property. This can include:
- Slipping on a wet floor in a grocery store
- Falling down stairs with a broken handrail
- Tripping over uneven pavement
These incidents can cause everything from sprained ankles to serious head injuries and even permanent disability. In many cases, they could have been prevented with proper property maintenance.
The Legal Duty of Property Owners in Ohio
In Ohio, property owners have a legal duty of care to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors. This applies to businesses, landlords, and even homeowners. They must regularly inspect their property, fix hazards promptly, and warn visitors of potential dangers.
If a property owner knew—or reasonably should have known—about a dangerous condition and failed to correct it or provide warning, they may be considered negligent and held legally responsible.
The “Open and Obvious” Doctrine
Ohio law also recognizes the “open and obvious” rule. If the danger is clearly visible and a reasonable person would have seen and avoided it, the property owner might not be liable. For example, if a store has a large caution sign next to a spill and someone still slips, the court may determine that the victim should have avoided the hazard.
Comparative Negligence: Shared Responsibility
Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule. This means that both the property owner and the injured party can share blame. If you’re found partially responsible—say 20% at fault for not watching where you were going—your compensation may be reduced by that amount. If you are more than 50% at fault, you may not be eligible to recover damages at all.
Common Hazards That Lead to Slip and Falls
- Wet or slippery floors without warning signs
- Uneven sidewalks or parking lots
- Loose rugs or carpets
- Broken staircases or handrails
- Icy walkways or driveways in winter
- Poor lighting in hallways or stairwells
- Debris or clutter in walking paths
What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident
If you’re injured in a fall, taking the right steps early can make a major difference in your recovery and legal claim. Here’s what you should do:
- Report the incident to the property owner or manager immediately.
- Document the scene by taking photos or videos of the hazard.
- Get medical attention, even if the injury seems minor at first.
- Collect witness information, including names and contact details.
- Keep your clothing and shoes—they could be used as evidence.
- Avoid giving detailed statements to insurance companies before speaking with a lawyer.
- Contact a personal injury attorney to protect your rights.
Why Legal Help Matters
Slip and fall cases are often more complicated than they appear. Insurance companies may try to shift the blame or downplay your injuries. Without legal representation, you risk settling for far less than you deserve.
At Larry Slagle Law, we know how to build strong cases. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with insurance providers to seek fair compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident, don’t wait. Ohio law gives you only two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better your chances of recovering the compensation you need.
Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you get back on your feet—one step at a time.
Learn more about Ohio slip and fall laws
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