If you were injured on someone else’s property around Pittsburgh, you may hear two terms used that may seem similar: slip and fall or premises liability. So, how do you know what the difference is between premises liability and slip and fall in Pennsylvania? A slip and fall lawyer can help you understand the difference.
These terms are commonly used together and are often associated with the same types of cases. However, they do have different meanings. One is a broad legal category, and the other is a specific type of claim within that category. Understanding the difference can help you better understand how your personal injury claim will be handled. A Pennsylvania premises liability attorney at SMT Legal can help.
What is Premises Liability?
Premises liability law states that property owners are responsible for keeping the premises reasonably safe for others. Should you get hurt because of an unsafe feature on property that doesn’t belong to you, the owner might be accountable if they had notice of the hazard and neglected to remedy it.
In Pittsburgh, premises liability can involve many different types of accidents, such as inadequate maintenance of stairways or sidewalks, poor lighting, falling objects, or negligent security. The theory behind premises liability cases is that property owners should do what is reasonable to prevent injuries to others who are on their property.
There are certain exceptions and conditions to this rule that can vary based on the situation and the relationship between the property owner and the injured party.
What is a Slip and Fall Case?
Slip and fall claims occur when an individual slips, trips, or falls as a result of a hazardous condition on someone else’s property. Some examples of slip and fall accidents include
- Slippery floors
- Icy walkways
- Uneven sidewalks
- Broken pavement
- Loose rugs
- Boxes in walkways
Essentially, anything that prevents a person from walking normally and causes a hazard can be the subject of a slip and fall case.
According to Injury Facts, falls at home and at work claimed 48,308 lives in 2024. That represents 24% of all avoidable injury-related fatalities in the United States. Nearly 480,000 workers suffered severe injuries in 2024 that necessitated days off work, and 844 workers perished in falls (17% of all workplace deaths).
Slippery conditions due to rain or snow are common slip and fall hazards. Other conditions can also create a risk that someone will slip and fall, particularly if there is a lot of foot traffic in the area. Many slip and fall claims occur in business establishments like stores, restaurants, apartment buildings, office buildings, or other places where the public commonly walks around.
The Difference Between Premises Liability and Slip and Fall
Premises liability is a category of personal injury cases, and slip and fall accidents fall under that category. Slip and fall accidents are just one specific type of incident that can happen on someone’s property. Another way to think of the difference is that all slip and fall accidents are premises liability cases, but not all premises liability accidents are slip and fall accidents.
Understanding this can help you identify the hazards that caused your injury and may have liability attached to them. For example, falling objects and poor lighting are typical premises liability claims that would not fall under slip and fall.
Comparative Negligence in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania uses a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that more than one person can be at fault for an accident. If you are found to be partly responsible for your slip and fall injury, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you were being distracted by something else and didn’t see the hazard that caused you to fall, you may be found to be partially at fault.
However, you can still collect compensation from the other person’s insurance company as long as you are found to be less than 51% responsible. Comparative negligence can apply to both premises liability accidents and slip and fall accidents.
Hire a Premises Liability Lawyer
At SMT Legal, we know how Pittsburgh area courts view slip and fall cases. We handle each case with care and keep you informed every step of the way. Based outside the Allegheny County Courthouse in Downtown Pittsburgh, we have experience with how Pittsburgh area judges and juries view premises liability claims.
When you hire a premises liability lawyer, they’ll guide you through the case’s specifics, the property’s state, and Pennsylvania’s legal framework.
FAQs
Is Premises Liability the Same as Slip and Fall?
Premises liability is not the same as a slip and fall. However, a slip and fall is a type of premises liability. It falls under the umbrella of premises liability. Premises liability cases involve injury due to hazardous conditions on property. A slip and fall is just one example of a premises liability case. Falling objects and inadequate security are other types.
What Is the Premises Liability Law in Pennsylvania?
There is no primary stand-alone premises liability law in Pennsylvania. Premises liability cases are rooted in common negligence principles and case law. Pennsylvania law states that property owners should make their property reasonably safe and remove known dangers. Other statutes, including comparative negligence principles, may also apply to your situation.
What Should I Not Say During Settlement?
Do not admit fault or apologize for your injuries during settlement negotiations. Try not to minimize your injuries by saying “I’m okay” or making guesses as to what occurred. Statements made during these discussions can be used against you. Stick to the facts that have been documented and do not assume liability or the value of your claim.
How Much Could I Potentially Win From a Premises Liability Case?
There is no standard or set amount for each premises liability case. The compensation you can recover is based on many factors, including the severity of injury, medical treatment and procedures, and impact on your everyday life. Every case is looked at separately. Verdicts can range from a few dollars to millions, depending on the evidence presented, liability determined, and how your injuries affect your livelihood and normal activities.
Contact SMT Legal Today
If you have been injured in a premises liability case, SMT Legal can help you in the process. Contact us today for a consultation.
