North Carolina Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a slip and fall in North Carolina, you don't have to face it alone. The pain, medical bills, and uncertainty can be overwhelming. Don’t wait for property owners—reach out to us today and begin your path to justice.

Slip and fall accidents are often underestimated, but for those who suffer them, the impact can be life-changing. A fall in a grocery store aisle, a restaurant, a parking lot, or an apartment stairwell can leave someone with broken bones, severe head injuries, or spinal trauma. Many victims need surgeries, rehabilitation, or long-term care, and some are left with permanent impairments that affect their ability to work and enjoy daily life.

In the state, such incidents frequently occur in busy areas like Charlotte shopping centers, Raleigh restaurants, Greensboro apartment complexes, and Asheville tourist destinations. They also occur along busy routes like I-77 and I-85, where gas stations, rest stops, and hotels attract many visitors who depend on safe conditions. Property owners are legally responsible for maintaining a safe environment in their spaces, but when they neglect this duty, the consequences can be severe.

At Galbavy Law, we understand how overwhelming these cases can be. My name is David Galbavy, and as a Board-Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation and a former insurance defense attorney, I have seen these cases from both sides of the table. I know how insurers argue that victims were careless or not paying attention. I also know how to build a case that proves the property owner was responsible and that the injuries deserve full and fair compensation. Over the years, our firm has recovered more than $25 million for clients across North Carolina, with many cases involving orthopedic injuries and permanent impairments resulting from falls.

Slip and fall accidents are not only common, but they are preventable. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services notes that falls are one of the leading causes of injury in the state, particularly among older adults. When property owners fail to maintain their properties or fail to warn visitors of hazards, they put lives at risk. At Galbavy Law, we are committed to holding them accountable and helping victims rebuild after these painful and costly accidents.

Your Legal Rights After a Slip and Fall in North Carolina

When someone is injured in a slip and fall, the law in North Carolina gives them the right to pursue compensation for the harm they have suffered. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and the pain and suffering caused by the accident. In more serious cases, it also covers the long-term impact of permanent impairments or disabilities that affect a person’s livelihood and independence.

Premises liability law obligates property owners and managers to take reasonable measures to ensure their property is safe. This includes fixing broken stairs, removing ice from sidewalks, cleaning up spills in grocery aisles, and providing sufficient lighting in parking garages. If they neglect these duties and someone is injured, they can be held liable.

North Carolina’s contributory negligence law makes it more challenging to pursue claims than in many other states. If an insurer or defense attorney can demonstrate that the victim was even 1% at fault—such as being distracted while walking or wearing footwear that they claim is unsafe—the victim could forfeit all rights to recovery. This strict rule underscores the importance of having an attorney who is skilled at countering such arguments and emphasizing the negligence of the property owner.

Victims also have the right to pursue claims against multiple parties that are responsible for their injuries. For example, if an accident occurred in a shopping mall in Charlotte. In that case, the claim might involve the store owner, the mall management company, and the maintenance contractor responsible for maintaining the floors safely. Each of these entities may share liability, and identifying them all is crucial for securing the maximum available compensation.

The North Carolina General Assembly codifies many laws controlling civil liability and negligence. You can review Article 15, Chapter 1 (which includes G.S. 1-139 on contributory negligence) in the NCGA’s official statutes PDF. At Galbavy Law, we thoroughly review every detail of the accident, consult with experts, and work closely with our clients so that no legal argument goes unexplored.

Your rights extend beyond medical bills and short-term costs. They are about ensuring you have the resources to move forward after a fall that should never have happened. With experience, credentials, and proven results, we are prepared to fight for those rights and secure the justice you deserve.

The Slip and Fall Claims Process in NC

The aftermath of a slip and fall can be overwhelming. While medical treatment is usually the first step, victims soon find themselves managing insurance adjusters, medical bills, and questions about next steps. At Galbavy Law, we support clients throughout the claims process, ensuring they understand what to expect and that their rights are safeguarded from the start.

The first step is always to seek medical care and document the injuries. Emergency visits, X-rays, MRIs, or evaluations from orthopedic specialists provide essential evidence that connects the fall to the harm suffered. These records not only support your recovery but also form the foundation of your claim.

The next step involves informing the property owner or manager about the accident. Many businesses and landlords prepare internal reports, making it crucial to document the incident. Following this, the insurance company typically gets involved. Adjusters usually contact victims promptly, requesting statements or proposing quick settlements. However, these initial offers often fail to consider future surgeries, rehabilitation, or long-term impairments. Without legal assistance, many victims accept settlements that are far less than they are entitled to.

At Galbavy Law, we promptly initiate our investigation by collecting video footage, interviewing witnesses, reviewing maintenance records, and consulting with safety specialists. For instance, if a fall occurs in a Raleigh grocery store due to an uncleaned spill, we strive to determine how long the hazard was present, identify who was responsible for maintenance, and investigate if similar incidents have occurred before.

North Carolina law requires that most personal injury claims, including slip and fall cases, be filed within three years of the accident. Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of death. Missing these deadlines can mean losing the right to pursue compensation altogether. You can confirm these time limits through the North Carolina Court System, which provides resources on statutes of limitations and civil procedures. Acting quickly ensures that evidence is preserved and that delays do not weaken your case.

Our role throughout the process is to manage communications with insurers, build the strongest possible case, and prepare as if a trial were inevitable. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and reassures clients that they will not be left vulnerable to the tactics insurers use to minimize claims.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents in NC

Slip and fall accidents can occur almost anywhere, but certain common causes repeatedly appear across North Carolina. Many of these causes are preventable, which is why property owners are held accountable when they neglect to address them. Wet or slippery surfaces are among the most frequent hazards, such as spilled drinks in restaurants, recently mopped grocery aisles, or icy sidewalks in Asheville during winter, all of which pose risks to visitors. When businesses do not place warning signs or clean up promptly, they create unsafe conditions and increase the likelihood of accidents and negligence.

Uneven surfaces and structural hazards also play a role. Cracked pavement in a Charlotte parking lot, loose floorboards in a Greensboro apartment complex, or poorly maintained stairwells in a Raleigh office building can all lead to devastating falls. Property owners and managers have a duty to repair or warn visitors about these conditions.

Poor lighting is another frequent factor. Dark stairwells, dimly lit hallways, or parking garages without adequate bulbs make it difficult to see hazards. Victims often trip or slip simply because they cannot see the danger in front of them.

Clutter and obstacles in walkways are also common causes. Boxes left in aisles, extension cords stretched across hallways, or debris near construction zones create preventable risks for visitors. These situations are particularly common in busy commercial areas where staff members may prioritize speed over safety.

Weather-related hazards affect many communities across the state. Rain in Raleigh, ice in Asheville, or snow in Greensboro increases the likelihood of falls, particularly when businesses fail to salt sidewalks or install non-slip mats. Property owners are not expected to control the weather, but they are expected to take reasonable steps to keep conditions safe for visitors.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights that falls are a leading cause of injury across the United States, particularly among older adults. For North Carolinians, this underscores the importance of holding negligent property owners accountable when preventable hazards cause life-altering injuries.

At Galbavy Law, we have seen how each of these causes plays out in real cases. From orthopedic injuries that require multiple surgeries to permanent impairments that limit mobility, the consequences are serious and long-lasting. Our focus is always on proving how the hazard should have been prevented and ensuring victims receive the resources they need to move forward.

Compensation Available in Slip and Fall Accident Cases in North Carolina

A common question victims have after a slip and fall is about the potential compensation they might receive. While falls are often seen as minor accidents, they can cause serious injuries such as broken hips, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and other orthopedic issues that may need surgeries and prolonged care. These injuries impose immediate financial costs and can also impact a person’s quality of life in the long term. At Galbavy Law, we ensure that we identify, document, and aggressively pursue all relevant damages.

Medical expenses are the first and most obvious category. Emergency room visits, imaging studies, surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation all add up quickly. Victims often face months or years of follow-up treatment, and many need ongoing physical therapy or pain management. Some require permanent mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs. These future costs must be factored into any settlement or verdict. We work closely with physicians and orthopedic specialists to ensure that the full scope of medical care is recognized in your claim.

Lost wages and diminished earning capacity are another critical part of compensation. Many clients are unable to return to work immediately after a serious fall, and some are never able to return to their previous occupations. For example, a Greensboro construction worker who fractures a vertebra in a fall may never be able to perform heavy lifting again. In these cases, compensation should reflect not just the income lost during recovery but also the long-term reduction in earning potential. Economists and vocational experts often play a role in demonstrating the full financial impact.

Non-economic damages address the human cost of slip and fall injuries. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the loss of enjoyment of daily activities are all compensable under North Carolina law. These are sometimes the most significant damages, particularly in cases involving permanent disability. A Raleigh grandmother who can no longer play with her grandchildren because of a hip replacement or an Asheville professional who must give up a lifelong hobby after a spinal injury both deserve recognition for these losses.

In some cases, victims also face scarring or disfigurement, particularly after surgeries. These visible reminders of the injury can create psychological distress and social challenges. Compensation in these cases acknowledges both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery.

The state’s contributory negligence rule adds another layer of complexity. If an insurer can demonstrate that the victim was even slightly at fault, such as failing to notice a spill or wearing inappropriate footwear, compensation may be denied altogether. Overcoming this argument requires careful evidence gathering and strong advocacy. As a former insurance defense attorney, I understand how these arguments are constructed and how to dismantle them before they prevent recovery effectively.

The United States Department of Justice notes that premises liability cases are among the most common types of civil lawsuits, underscoring the importance of pursuing fair damages when injuries occur on unsafe property. At Galbavy Law, we bring more than legal skill to these cases. We get a track record of recovering more than 20 million dollars for North Carolinians, including clients with multiple surgeries and permanent impairments caused by preventable falls. Our goal is to ensure that compensation covers not only today’s bills but also tomorrow’s challenges, providing you with the resources to move forward with confidence.

Why Hiring a North Carolina Slip and Fall Attorney Matters

Some people believe they can handle a slip and fall case on their own, especially when the facts seem straightforward. Unfortunately, insurance companies rarely make the process simple. They often dispute liability, minimize injuries, and use North Carolina’s contributory negligence rule to deny claims. Without experienced representation, victims risk receiving little or no compensation, even when the property owner is clearly at fault.

Hiring a North Carolina slip and fall attorney levels the playing field. At Galbavy Law, we understand the tactics insurers use, having once defended them. My background as a former insurance defense attorney provides me with insight into how adjusters evaluate cases, the weaknesses they look for, and how they argue against victims. Now, I use that knowledge to protect my clients and anticipate the strategies the other side will deploy.

Legal representation also ensures that evidence is gathered and preserved. Surveillance footage can be erased, maintenance logs can be lost, and witnesses’ memories can fade. An attorney steps in quickly to secure this evidence before it disappears. For example, in a Charlotte case involving a fall in a retail store, video showing that an employee ignored a spill for hours may be the difference between a denied claim and a fair settlement.

Slip and fall cases can also be medically complex. Many involve orthopedic injuries such as fractured hips, torn ligaments, or spinal trauma. These injuries require detailed medical evidence to establish their seriousness and long-term effects. At Galbavy Law, we work with orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and medical experts to present clear and convincing evidence of how the injury has changed your life.

Another reason hiring an attorney matters is the ability to identify all liable parties. A fall in a Raleigh apartment building might involve the landlord, the property management company, and a maintenance contractor. Without legal guidance, victims often pursue only one defendant, leaving other sources of compensation untouched.

The North Carolina Judicial Branch provides extensive information on the responsibilities of property owners and the rights of injury victims, which highlights the importance of seeking qualified legal help when those rights are violated. Understanding the law is one thing. Applying it effectively against insurers and corporations is another.

At Galbavy Law, our difference is rooted in credentials, results, and personal service. We have recovered more than $ 20 million for clients across North Carolina, including those with serious orthopedic injuries resulting from falls. We treat every case as unique, every client as a priority, and every insurer as an opponent we are fully prepared to challenge. With our experience, knowledge, and dedication, you do not have to face the fight alone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slip and Fall Accidents in North Carolina

When someone suffers a fall on another person’s property, questions come quickly. Victims often wonder whether they can file a claim, how long the process takes, and what role North Carolina’s contributory negligence law plays in their recovery. Below are some of the questions we hear most frequently from clients in Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Asheville, and throughout the state at Galbavy Law.

1. What should I do immediately after a slip and fall accident?The most crucial step is to get medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, conditions like concussions, internal bleeding, or orthopedic injuries can worsen over time. Next, report the fall to the property owner or manager and request that an incident report be completed. If possible, take photographs of the hazard, such as a spill or uneven flooring, and get contact information from witnesses. Finally, contact a North Carolina slip and fall attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters, who may try to use your words against you.
2. How does contributory negligence affect my slip and fall case?NC follows one of the strictest negligence rules in the country. If you are found even one percent at fault for your fall, you may be barred from recovering compensation. Insurers often argue that victims were careless or not paying attention, even when the property owner failed to correct a dangerous condition. This makes strong legal representation essential because an attorney can gather evidence to demonstrate that the hazard, rather than the victim’s behavior, was the actual cause of the accident.
3. What types of compensation are available?Victims may recover for medical expenses, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and permanent impairments. In cases involving surgeries, long-term rehabilitation, or permanent disability, damages can be significant. Compensation should also reflect future needs, not just the immediate bills.
4. Who can be held liable in a slip and fall accident?Liability often depends on the circumstances. A grocery store owner who fails to clean up a spill, a landlord who ignores broken stairs, or a municipality that fails to repair dangerous sidewalks may all be held responsible. Sometimes multiple parties share liability, such as when a property management company and a maintenance contractor both contributed to unsafe conditions.
5. How long do I have to file a claim?The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in North Carolina is three years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long can result in losing your right to compensation entirely. Acting quickly is critical not only to meet deadlines but also to preserve evidence such as surveillance video, which businesses often delete within weeks. For more information, the North Carolina Judicial Branch provides helpful details about filing civil claims.
6. What if my accident happened at work?Falls that occur on the job may involve both a workers’ compensation claim and a premises liability claim. For example, a delivery worker who slips on a hazardous floor may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits and also be able to pursue a claim against the property owner for negligence. Because David Galbavy is a Board-Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation, Galbavy Law is uniquely equipped to handle both aspects of these cases.
7. How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?At Galbavy Law, there are no upfront costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only receive payment if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. Consultations are free, and clients are never billed for asking questions about their rights or the claims process.
8. Will my case go to trial?Many slip and fall cases are resolved through settlement, but some require litigation to be pursued. We prepare every claim as if it will be heard by a jury. This thorough preparation often results in better settlements because insurers know we are ready to fight in court if necessary.
9. Why are slip and fall cases so difficult?Property owners and insurers often dismiss falls as trivial or shift blame onto the victim. The contributory negligence law further complicates such cases. To counter these challenges, strong evidence, trustworthy testimony, and thorough medical records are essential. At Galbavy Law, we prepare cases that proactively address these defenses and accurately depict the victim's experiences.
10. Can I still file a claim if the hazard was obvious?Insurance companies often argue that a hazard was “open and obvious,” such as a brightly colored spill or a clearly marked construction area, to deny compensation. However, the law does not automatically prevent recovery in these cases. Many victims are distracted for valid reasons, such as carrying groceries or focusing on children, and property owners still have a duty to maintain safe conditions. A premises accident lawyer in North Carolina that victims trust can evaluate whether the property owner acted reasonably and whether the hazard could have been corrected prior to the accident occurring.
11. What if the property owner fixed the hazard after my fall?It is common for property owners to repair or clean up a dangerous condition immediately after an accident. However, this does not absolve them of their responsibility for the injuries caused. Courts often permit evidence of post-accident repairs to demonstrate that a hazard existed, even if the property owner claims otherwise. An experienced North Carolina slip and fall attorney can assist in gathering witness statements, photographs, or surveillance footage that prove the condition was present at the time of your fall, even if it has since been fixed.

Take the Next Step Toward Recovery Today With Galbavy Law

A slip and fall can change your life in an instant, leaving you with pain, medical bills, and uncertainty about the future. You should not have to fight property owners and insurance companies alone, especially in a state with such strict negligence laws.

At Galbavy Law, we have recovered over $ 20 million for clients across North Carolina, including those with orthopedic injuries, multiple surgeries, and permanent impairments. David Galbavy is a Board-Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation and a former insurance defense attorney, which means he knows how insurers operate and how to counter their tactics.

If you're looking for a North Carolina slip-and-fall attorney who will handle your case with the seriousness it warrants, fill out our contact form at Galbavy Law today. The consultation is free, with no upfront fees, and we're prepared to support you from the very first call. Your path to recovery starts here.