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Slip and Fall — Pennsylvania

Slip and Fall in Pennsylvania — Your Legal Rights

Pennsylvania premises liability law governs slip and fall cases. Property owners fight these claims aggressively — knowing the rules and acting quickly is essential.

Statute of Limitations

Pennsylvania statute of limitations for slip and fall claims: 2 years from the date of the incident. Pennsylvania has a 2-year statute of limitations for slip and fall claims (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524). Claims against Pennsylvania government entities require a notice under the Pennsylvania Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act — typically within 6 months for local government entities.

Pennsylvania Premises Liability — Invitee Standard

Pennsylvania still uses the traditional invitee/licensee distinction. Property owners owe invitees (business visitors) the duty to inspect and repair or warn of hazardous conditions. The key issue in Pennsylvania slip and fall cases is typically whether the property owner had notice of the hazard — actual notice (they knew) or constructive notice (the condition existed long enough they should have known).

Pennsylvania-Specific Tip

Pennsylvania has a 2-year statute of limitations for slip and fall claims (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524). Claims against Pennsylvania government entities require a notice under the Pennsylvania Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act — typically within 6 months for local government entities.

📊 Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of emergency room visits in Pennsylvania.

What To Do After a Slip and Fall in Pennsylvania

1

Report the incident to the property manager immediately and get a written incident report

2

Photograph the hazard, surrounding conditions, lighting, and signage

3

Send a written request to preserve all surveillance footage — most businesses overwrite within 24-72 hours

4

Get witness contact information

5

Seek medical attention within 24 hours

6

Do NOT sign anything from the property owner or their insurer

7

Preserve your footwear and clothing — they are evidence

8

Contact a Pennsylvania premises liability attorney before speaking with the property's insurance company

Frequently Asked Questions — Slip and Fall in Pennsylvania

How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Pennsylvania?

2 years from the date of the incident. Pennsylvania has a 2-year statute of limitations for slip and fall claims (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524). Claims against Pennsylvania government entities require a notice under the Pennsylvania Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act — typically within 6 months for local government entities.

What must I prove in a Pennsylvania slip and fall case?

You must generally prove the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to fix it or warn you. Pennsylvania still uses the traditional invitee/licensee distinction. Property owners owe invitees (business visitors) the duty to inspect and repair or warn of hazardous conditions. The key issue in Pennsylvania slip and fall cases is typically whether the property owner had notice of the hazard — actual notice (they knew) or constructive notice (the condition existed long enough they should have known).

How much is a slip and fall case worth in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania slip and fall settlements depend on injury severity and strength of liability. Minor injuries may settle for $10,000-$50,000. Serious injuries including fractures, spinal injuries, or traumatic brain injuries can be worth $100,000 or more.

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