Slip and Fall Injuries – Who’s Responsible?
May 20, 2025Every year, thousands of Manitobans suffer accidental injuries while going about their daily routines. These incidents can create a significant burden in terms of pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses, and rehabilitation costs. If you’ve been hurt, speaking with a qualified slip and fall lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and determine your next steps.
Pollock & Company is a Winnipeg law firm with extensive experience in personal injury claims. We are committed to providing honest advice and reliable information to help you determine the best course of action for your unique situation.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall incidents often result from hazardous property conditions that could have been prevented. Some of the most common causes include:
- Wet or slippery floors
- Icy sidewalks and parking lots
- Poor lighting or lack of visibility
- Uneven surfaces, broken stairs, or loose floorboards
- Clutter, debris, or cords in walkways
- Failure to post warning signs in dangerous areas
Understanding Legal Responsibility
In Manitoba, slip and fall injuries are regulated by The Occupiers’ Liability Act, which outlines the legal duty of property owners (or occupiers) to maintain a safe environment. To succeed in a legal claim, the injured party must prove that
- The occupier failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm;
- The hazardous condition caused the injury;
- The injury resulted in actual damages (financial or physical).
For example, slipping on ice in front of a store does not automatically prove negligence. The key question is whether the occupier knew (or should have known) about the hazard and failed to take reasonable action.
Your Own Duty of Care
An injured person also has a responsibility to look out for their own safety. If they were engaging in risky behaviour—such as walking while intoxicated or ignoring clearly marked warnings—their actions could be considered contributory negligence, which may reduce or eliminate their ability to claim compensation.
Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall
What you do immediately after an incident can greatly affect your case. Here are some crucial steps:
- Seek medical attention – even if injuries seem minor.
- Report the incident to the property owner or staff and ask for a copy of the report.
- Take photos of the scene and any visible injuries.
- Collect contact info of any witnesses.
- Avoid admitting fault or making detailed statements to insurers.
- Speak with a personal injury lawyer before accepting any settlement offers.
We also offer a Slip and Fall Checklist to help you organize your response.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
In Manitoba, typically a person has two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the injury occurred on city or municipal property, a person may be required to submit written notice within as little as 10 days. Don’t delay—early legal advice can protect your rights.
What Compensation Can You Claim?
If you’ve been hurt due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs
- Loss of income or reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Out-of-pocket costs related to the injury
How A Personal Injury/Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Help
Legal claims involving falls can be complex. Property owners and insurance companies often try to minimize or deny responsibility. An experienced lawyer can:
- Explain your rights and legal options
- Gather evidence and assess liability
- Build a strong claim for compensation
- Negotiate with insurers or represent you in court
At Pollock & Company, we will give you an honest assessment—whether or not you have a strong case and what your best options are.
Talk to a Winnipeg Slip and Fall Lawyer
At Pollock & Company, we have the experience, commitment, and capability to find the best avenues to pursue your personal injury claim. Civil litigation can be costly and stressful—but we’re here to help you navigate it with clarity.
A single phone call with our team can save you time, money, and frustration by laying out your options.
Contact us today to determine the strength of your slip and fall case and take the first step toward recovery.
