Slip and Falls in Indiana: What You Need to Know
A slip and fall can happen anywhere—on a wet grocery store floor, in a poorly lit parking lot, or on icy steps that weren’t cleared. For many Hoosiers, the experience is not just painful but also frustrating and embarrassing. Medical bills pile up, time off work becomes unavoidable, and the property owner’s insurance company may act like it’s all your fault.
At the Marc Lopez Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming this feels. Attorney Marc Lopez and his team help injured people across Indiana hold negligent property owners accountable. Here’s what you need to know about how slip and fall cases actually work.
What Is a Slip and Fall Case?
A slip and fall case is a type of premises liability claim. It happens when someone is injured because a property owner or business failed to keep their property safe. Common examples include:
- Wet or freshly mopped floors without warning signs
- Snow or ice not cleared from sidewalks or entrances
- Uneven pavement or broken steps
- Poor lighting in stairwells or parking lots
- Clutter, cords, or debris left in walkways
To win a slip and fall case in Indiana, you generally have to prove four things:
- The property owner owed you a duty of care.
- They breached that duty by allowing unsafe conditions.
- That negligence directly caused your fall.
- You suffered real damages (like medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering).
What Should I Do After a Slip and Fall in Indiana?
The steps you take right after a fall can make or break your claim. Here’s what to do:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Your health comes first, and medical records help prove your injuries.
- Report the incident. Notify the property owner or manager, and ask for a copy of the incident report.
- Document the scene. Take photos or videos of the hazard (wet floor, broken step, ice, etc.).
- Gather witness information. Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw what happened can help.
- Avoid recorded statements. Insurance adjusters may try to twist your words. Always talk to a lawyer first.
- Call an Indiana slip and fall lawyer. An attorney can investigate, preserve evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Can You Sue for a Slip and Fall in Indiana?
Yes, you can—if negligence caused your injuries. Simply being embarrassed or shaken up isn’t enough. Indiana law requires actual damages, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disability or reduced quality of life
If your fall wasn’t the cause of your medical condition, the claim may not succeed. For example, if you develop bronchitis shortly after a slip that likely wouldn’t meet the legal standard. But if unsafe conditions caused a broken bone, concussion, or other serious injury, you may have a valid claim.
How Long Do I Have to File a Slip and Fall Claim in Indiana?
Indiana has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including slip and falls. That means you have two years from the date of your fall to file a lawsuit. If the fall happened on government property, you may have as little as 180 days to file a tort claim notice. Waiting too long can permanently bar your right to recovery.
What to Expect in a Slip and Fall Case
Most slip and fall claims follow a general process:
- Investigation – Your attorney gathers evidence of negligence.
- Filing a claim – A demand is made to the property owner’s insurance company.
- Negotiation – Many cases settle through negotiation.
- Lawsuit – If the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can take the case to court.
At each stage, the Marc Lopez Law Firm keeps the focus on protecting your rights and maximizing your recovery.
Why Choose the Marc Lopez Law Firm for Your Indiana Slip and Fall Case?
Slip and fall cases are rarely simple. Property owners may deny responsibility, claim they didn’t know about the hazard, or even argue you were at fault. Indiana uses a modified comparative fault rule, which means if you’re found more than 50% responsible for your own fall, you can’t recover damages.
This is why it’s so important to have an experienced Indiana slip and fall attorney by your side. Attorney Marc Lopez and his team know how to build strong cases with evidence, medical documentation, and witness testimony. While you focus on healing, we handle the insurance companies and legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slip and Fall Cases in Indiana
Do I need to prove negligence in a slip and fall case?
Yes. You must show that the property owner failed to take reasonable steps to keep their property safe.
What if I was partly at fault for my fall?
You may still recover compensation, as long as you were less than 51% responsible. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Can I sue if I fell but wasn’t injured?
No. Indiana law requires damages. Without medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, there is no claim.
What if my fall happened at work?
That may be a workers’ compensation case instead. You should still speak to a lawyer to protect your rights.
How much is my Indiana slip and fall case worth?
It depends on the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and how your life has been impacted. An attorney can help estimate a fair value.
Speak With an Indiana Slip and Fall Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall in Indiana, you don’t have to deal with medical bills, insurance adjusters, and legal deadlines alone. Call the Marc Lopez Law Firm today at 463-276-5737. Let us turn your frustration into compensation.
