Proving a Tennessee Slip and Fall Claim
To win a slip and fall case, you generally must show that a dangerous condition existed, that the property owner knew or should have known about it, that they failed to fix it or warn you, and that this failure caused your injury. Owners and their insurers often argue that the hazard was obvious or that you were not watching where you were going, which is why evidence and prompt investigation matter.
Common Hazards
Wet or freshly mopped floors without warning signs, icy walkways, uneven pavement, broken stairs, poor lighting, loose rugs, and unmarked changes in floor level all cause falls. In Tennessee's commercial centers, grocery stores, big-box retailers, restaurants, and hotels are frequent sites of these injuries.
Comparative Fault in Fall Cases
Tennessee's modified comparative fault rule applies to slip and fall claims. If you are found partly responsible — for example, for wearing inappropriate footwear — your recovery is reduced, and you recover nothing if you are 50% or more at fault. An attorney works to keep the focus on the owner's failure to maintain a safe property.
Acting Quickly to Preserve Evidence
Surveillance video is often overwritten within days or weeks, and hazards get cleaned up or repaired. Photographing the scene, reporting the fall, and contacting an attorney promptly all help preserve the proof your claim depends on.
Injured in Tennessee? Get a free, confidential case review today. There's no obligation, and you pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally that a dangerous condition existed, the owner knew or should have known about it, they failed to fix or warn about it, and that failure caused your injury.
Tennessee's comparative fault rule still allows recovery if you were less than 50% at fault, with your award reduced by your share of responsibility.
Surveillance footage and physical evidence disappear quickly. Prompt photos, an incident report, and early legal help preserve the proof your case needs.
This page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Tennessee attorney. Injury Claim Team is a legal referral service, not a law firm.