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Document the Scene: Proving a Slip and Fall Case

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Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C.

10b9db026d89119e951a851045ac17eee7784f79

Written/Reviewed By:

Barry S. Kantrowitz, Esq.

Last Updated: Jun 12, 2026

Read Time: 3 mins

A slip and fall usually happens in an instant, taking its victim completely by surprise. If someone is at fault for the accident, it pays to take a few moments to gather evidence that documents the scene. Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C.’s slip and fall lawyers in Rockland County and Bergen County see this situation play out again and again; those who gather some information at the time of the incident have a much smoother road to proving their slip and fall case

What is needed to prove slip and fall liability?

An injury victim may be entitled to recover if they can establish that the property’s owner or occupier was careless regarding a dangerous or potentially dangerous condition of the property. An example might be that a grocery store’s employees knew about a spill but did not clean it up immediately or warn customers to be careful.

Documenting the scene will help you show the extent of the hazard, how informed the property owner or manager was or should have been, and whether a reasonable person would have discovered the hazard without getting hurt first.

Ways to document a slip and fall

The first thing to do in the case of a slip and fall is to notify the property owner. Next, take steps to document the situation.

Take photos or videos. A visual representation is often much more effective evidence than a verbal description. Photograph the site of the fall itself – including the cause of the fall such as a spill or uneven flooring – as well as the surrounding area, lighting conditions, and path of foot traffic.
Meet the witnesses. If there are others who saw the fall, try to obtain their names and phone numbers. If necessary, you can call on them to corroborate your account of the event.
Obtain a copy of any official report. If the property owner requests you to fill out a written incident report, ask for a copy for your records. If the police or other first responders arrive at the scene, obtain a copy of their reports as well.
Seek medical attention. Many injuries are not apparent immediately but defense counsel or insurance adjusters often try to discredit victims who do not seek medical help immediately. It is better to be safe and have your injuries checked out right away.

Keep in mind that your time to file a lawsuit or insurance claim in New York or New Jersey is limited by the statutes of limitations. Speaking with a lawyer early is advisable in order to protect your rights.

Consult a personal injury lawyer

The Rockland and Bergen County personal injury lawyers at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. in Rockland County, New York and Bergen County, New Jersey are adept at navigating the often complicated and confusing path of proving a slip and fall claim. If you have been injured in a fall because of someone else’s carelessness, call today for a no-obligation case review.

Additional Slip and Fall Injury Resources:

NY Courts, Statute of Limitations, https://www.nycourts.gov/courthelp/GoingToCourt/SOLchart.shtml
Justia, 2013 New Jersey Revised Statutes Title 2A – Administration of Civil and Criminal Justice Section 2A:14-2 – Actions for injury caused by wrongful act, appointment of guardian ad litem, http://law.justia.com/codes/new-jersey/2013/title-2a/section-2a-14-2

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Client Reviews

    
 
 
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   LWelsh 
 1 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Clever and efficient.
  
 
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   Kenny Perlow 
 22 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. KGG Law, and Barry Kantrowitz in particular, set the bar high for what a thorough, practical, strategic, compassionate and smart lawyer can be. Everything about Barry's advice and representation was exemplary and the stress mitigation that resulted was invaluable. On top of that, the ultimate result Barry achieved was beyond what was reasonable to expect and we are forever grateful. Often, people say that you hire a lawyer to prevent a problem. Sometimes, unfortunately, you need an attorney to solve a problem and I could not recommend Barry and his firm any more highly in that regard.
  
 
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   Aliza Ali 
 86 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My dad had a great experience with this law firm. From the very beginning, the team was professional, knowledgeable, and always willing to answer our questions. They kept us informed throughout the entire process and made what could have been a very stressful situation much easier to handle. We truly appreciated their dedication, honesty, and hard work. Thanks to their support, my dad felt confident every step of the way. We are very grateful for everything they did and would highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for reliable legal representation.
  
 
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   Jana Montero 
 89 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a wonderful experience working with Sam Smith. He was very responsive, thorough, and easy to work with from start to finish. He walked me through everything clearly and made what started as a very stressful situation for me into something completely manageable. I would not hesitate to recommend him and the firm!
  
 
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   Mike Sakmann 
 95 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I sought legal advice regarding an employment matter and had an excellent experience working with Sam Smith, Esq. at KGG Law. Sam was thorough, attentive, and took the time to listen carefully to my concerns before providing clear, thoughtful guidance. I appreciated the professionalism and care shown throughout the process, and I would confidently recommend KGG Law to anyone in need of legal assistance.
  
 
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   Liz Hecker 
 101 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't say enough about this firm. They manage to comfort you during the whole legal process while staying professional and doing what is right. I would recommend them to anyone and also hire them again if I need legal help.
  
 
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   Brandy Miller 
 124 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kate is the best. She helped me very quickly, and was very attentive with all of my needs. So thankful for her
  
 
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   Mike Greenspan 
 137 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kate Carballo is a dedicated, passionate, and creative attorney whom I had the pleasure to lecture with at a state trial lawyer's conference. Kate's lecture demonstrated how she uses her innovative and "out-of-the-box thinking" to achieve outstanding results for her injured clients. That Kate is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a civil trial attorney is a testament to her skills, experience and commitment to excellence.
  
 
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   Jonathan Sampson 
 144 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Was referred to KGG law by a friend and could not have asked for better legal representation. They walked me through every step of the process after my accident and began every call with “ how are you feeling” which was just one example of how much they care about their clients. They handled my case very efficiently, professionally and courteously. My attorney Kate Carballo was a rock star! So clearly experienced, she consistently made me feel at ease with the process. Highly recommend
  
 
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   Vinnie Kung 
 147 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great experience with the team at KGG Law. While it was a traumatic time for our family, they made it very easy for us and explained all of our options. They even performed due diligence to make sure that after our settlement, there would be no further issues which I think is even more important than the settlement itself. Thank you!

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