Winter Hazards and Slip and Fall Injuries in California: Know Your Legal Rights
When Mild Winters Still Bring Serious Injury Risks
Although Southern California is renowned for its sunshine and warm temperatures, winter months can still bring unexpected hazards. From heavy rain and flooding to high winds causing downed trees, power outages, and debris, even brief weather events can make everyday environments treacherous. Among the most common risks during this time of year are slip and fall accidents—often occurring in store entrances, sidewalks, parking lots, and apartment complexes.
At The Law Offices of Ali Taheripour, we have seen firsthand how these accidents can lead to serious, long-term consequences. If you've been injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else's property, California premises liability law may entitle you to compensation.
Understanding Property Owners’ Legal Duties in California
If you are injured in a slip and fall incident in raining weather, you may have a legal claim against the property owners and/or managers, because they are required to maintain reasonably safe premises and avoid exposing others to foreseeable and unreasonable risks of harm. These responsibilities include:
- Routine inspections of the property for potential hazards, including wet floors, loose tiles, or roof leaks
- Timely repair of known issues, such as burst pipes or poor drainage
- Clear warnings for hazardous conditions that cannot be fixed immediately (e.g., signs, tape, or verbal notice)
Failure to uphold these duties can lead to premises liability claims if someone is hurt as a result.
Premises Liability Claims: What You May Be Entitled To
If you slip, fall, and suffer an injury due to unsafe property conditions, you may be entitled to compensation including but not limited to:
Costs of Your Medical Treatment
- Lost wages or income due to time away from work
- Pain and suffering
- Future rehabilitation or ongoing care needs
To pursue a claim, you typically need to prove:
- The property owner or operator was negligent in maintaining their premises
- You were injured or harmed
- Their negligence was a substantial factor in causing that harm
See: [California Civil Jury Instructions (CACI) No. 1000].
Common Defenses in Slip and Fall Cases
Slip and fall cases in California are not always straightforward. Property owners and insurers may use various defenses to dispute liability, such as:
- Arguing that the hazard was “open and obvious” and you should have avoided it
- Claiming you were distracted or not paying attention
- Alleging you were not lawfully on the property (e.g., trespassing)
- Blaming weather conditions as unavoidable rather than negligent maintenance
What If the Fall Happens on Public Property?
When a slip and fall happens on public or government-owned property, there are strict deadlines and filing procedures that apply. You must often file a Notice of Claim within six months. Failure to meet these deadlines can result in your case being dismissed. See California Civil Jury Instructions (CACI) No. 1100.
If you would like more information regarding personal injury claims against public entities, please read our previous blog: Injured By A Pothole Or Road Defect In California? Know Your Legal Rights
Ali Taheripour: Trusted Slip and Fall Attorney in California
For more than 20 years, The Law Offices of Ali Taheripour has successfully represented injured clients across Southern California. Our team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll that winter-related accidents can cause—and we’re here to help you seek justice.
Whether negotiating with insurance companies, pursuing litigation, or helping you understand your rights, we offer personalized, knowledgeable support every step of the way.
Don’t Wait—Protect Your Rights Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a slip and fall injury this winter, don’t delay. Call The Law Offices of Ali Taheripour to schedule a consultation. Contact us for trusted legal support across California.