Understanding Slip and Fall Accidents in South Carolina
Slip and fall injuries happen every day—at grocery stores, restaurants, offices, and even on city sidewalks in Charleston. Under South Carolina premises liability law, businesses and property owners must exercise reasonable care to prevent injuries to visitors. When unsafe conditions cause someone to fall, the property owner may be held responsible for resulting injuries. Our team helps injured people understand their rights, prove negligence, and pursue the compensation they deserve.
Step-by-Step:
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall cases can happen almost anywhere, but the most common scenarios include:
Wet or Slippery Floors
Water, spills, or slick surfaces in stores and restaurants can easily cause serious slip-and-fall injuries.
Uncleaned Spills or Debris
Food, liquids, or other debris left unattended create hazardous walking conditions for customers and visitors.
Uneven Pavement or Sidewalks
Cracked sidewalks and damaged parking lots can lead to trips, falls, and significant injuries.
Loose Rugs or Flooring
Unsecured mats, rugs, or floorboards can shift underfoot and cause sudden falls.
Poor Lighting Conditions
Inadequate lighting in hallways, stairwells, or parking areas makes it difficult to see hazards in time.
Missing or Damaged Handrails
Stairways without proper handrails increase the risk of falls, especially for older adults and children.
Ice or Snow on Walkways
Untreated winter conditions can make walkways dangerously slippery and lead to preventable accidents.
Cluttered or Obstructed Walkways
Boxes, cords, or other obstacles left in walking paths can cause unexpected trips and falls.
What Do You Need to Prove in a Slip and Fall Case?
To win a slip and fall case in South Carolina, you need to show:
- The property owner (or manager) knew or should have known about the dangerous condition
- They failed to fix it or warn visitors in a reasonable time
- The unsafe condition directly caused your injury
Strong evidence is key. This can include:
- Incident reports
- Photos of the scene and hazard
- Witness statements
- Medical records and prompt treatment
Property owners and their insurance companies often deny fault or claim the hazard was “open and obvious.” A skilled premises liability attorney can help gather the proof you need and handle communications with insurers.
What Compensation Is Available in Slip and Fall Cases?
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost income from missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or scarring
- Punitive damages (in rare cases of gross negligence or reckless conduct)
Every case is different. Our firm reviews all the details to ensure you’re seeking every dollar you deserve.
Can You Sue for a Slip and Fall in South Carolina?
Yes—if you’re hurt because a business or property owner failed to maintain safe conditions, you may have a valid claim for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Charleston courts take these cases seriously, but proving negligence is not always straightforward. You have three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit in South Carolina, but starting sooner helps preserve evidence and witness recollections.
Related Premises Liability Injuries
Slip and fall claims are just one type of premises liability case. If you were injured by a dog on someone else’s property, see our Dog Bite Injuries page for more details. We can help with a full range of property-related injury cases.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slip and Fall Accident
Can I win a slip and fall case if I was partly at fault?
Yes—South Carolina follows a comparative negligence rule. If you’re less than 51% responsible, you can still recover damages (but your award may be reduced).
Do businesses owe a higher duty of care than homeowners?
Businesses owe the highest duty to customers (“invitees”), while private property owners must still provide reasonable safety for lawful visitors.
How soon should I contact a lawyer after a slip and fall?
As soon as possible. Early action helps secure evidence, witness statements, and surveillance footage.
How long does a slip and fall case take?
Some settle quickly, while others require litigation. Most cases resolve within several months to a year, but every situation is unique.
Can I claim punitive damages?
In rare cases—if the property owner was grossly negligent or reckless, punitive damages may be available.