Common Misconceptions About Slip and Fall Accidents in Philadelphia

Can I Sue If I Experienced a Slip and Fall Injury?

Slipping and falling is one of the most common injuries Americans experience. Every year, about one million people experience slip-and-fall injuries, accounting for approximately 3% of all hospital emergency room visits. Sometimes, if someone slips and falls, it’s a simple accident. However, in many cases, if you’ve slipped and fallen, it’s due to someone else’s negligence. In this scenario, you may be able to seek financial compensation for your injuries.

However, many misconceptions exist about what to do when you slip and fall. Acting on any of these misconceptions can potentially harm your case. It may even prevent you from being able to collect any compensation at all. That’s why if you or a loved one were hurt in a slip and fall, you should contact one of our team’s experienced and compassionate lawyers. We can help you navigate the misinformation floating around the internet and provide the best representation for your case.

What Counts as a Slip and Fall?

A slip and fall injury is just what it sounds like: when someone slips and falls, resulting in an injury. Slip and falls can happen for any variety of reasons; some of the most common causes of slip and falls include:

• Wet Floors/Spills/Leaks
• Uneven Flooring/Loose Boards or Tiles
• Poor Lighting
• Cluttered/Poorly Maintained Spaces
• Holes/Gaps in Cement or Asphalt
• Ice and Snow
• Broken/Missing Stairs or Handrails 

A slip and fall can happen anywhere, including on private property, in a business, at a public venue, or even in a government building.

Is it True I Don’t Need to Go to the Doctor After a Fall?

Many people assume they know what to do after a slip and fall—relying on common sense or advice from others who’ve had similar experiences. But the reality is that there’s a lot of misinformation surrounding these types of accidents, and following the wrong steps can seriously jeopardize your claim. That’s why having an experienced attorney on your side is crucial—to help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your right to full and fair compensation.

For example, many people assume that delaying medical treatment by a week or two won’t harm their claim. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. Insurance companies frequently use delays or gaps in treatment to cast doubt on the severity of the injuries—or even question the credibility of the injured person. Prompt medical attention is not only critical for your health but also essential to protecting the strength of your case.

Is it True I Shouldn’t Deal Directly with an Insurance Company After a Fall?

Another mistake people make is dealing directly with insurance companies. Many individuals think that as long as they are honest and forthright with an insurance company, they can do things “the right way” and avoid a court case. The truth is that negotiating a settlement with an insurance company is a complex process. Insurance companies will do everything in their power to avoid paying out and to pay as little as possible if they must settle. Insurance companies will try to dodge responsibility entirely or offer you a minimal settlement. Many people accept this settlement, usually for much less than they deserve. This amount will often not even cover fall-related expenses, including medical bills and lost wages.

Every year, countless people injured in slip and fall accidents accept the first offer from an insurance company. This decision can cost you thousands of dollars and leave you responsible for your medical bills and other expenses.

Is It True I Shouldn’t Talk to Anyone After a Fall?

Being too forthright or easy going is another mistake. Your words and actions after a fall can be used against you later if you’re not careful. For example, simply saying something as innocent as “I need to watch where I’m going” could be used to imply you were responsible for your fall. This can potentially prevent you from collecting any compensation.

Insurance companies are always looking for ways to reduce or avoid liability for their clients. Anything you say to a representative—no matter how casual—can later be used against you. Even a simple comment about being tired after a long day at work could be twisted into a claim that you were distracted. Their goal is to minimize payouts, not to ensure fair compensation. That’s why it’s important to hire an experienced and dedicated personal injury attorney who can protect your rights and advocate on your behalf.

What Should I Do if I Experienced a Slip and Fall Injury?

The moment you’re injured in a slip and fall, the clock starts ticking. From police reports to insurance adjusters and business owners, various parties may work—intentionally or not—to limit your ability to recover the compensation you deserve. Even if you believe you’re handling everything correctly, a single misstep or poorly worded statement can jeopardize your entire case.

That’s why, if you or a loved one has been hurt in a slip and fall, it’s critical to contact the law firm of Stampone O’Brien Dilsheimer Holloway without delay. Our experienced attorneys understand the tactics insurance companies and defense lawyers use to avoid paying what’s fair. We’ve seen their playbook—and we know how to counter it with aggressive, strategic advocacy designed to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.

What may seem like a simple slip and fall can quickly become a serious, life-altering event. With Stampone O’Brien Dilsheimer Holloway by your side, you’ll have trusted advocates to guide you every step of the way—no surprises, just results. If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall, call us today at 267-214-9695 for a free and confidential case evaluation.