Slip & Fall / Premises Liability

Representing victims of falls and injuries caused by dangerous property conditions throughout Michigan.

  • Introduction
  • Background Information
  • FAQs

Holding Property Owners Accountable for Unsafe Conditions

A slip and fall can happen anywhere — a grocery store, parking lot, apartment complex, or private business. What may seem like a simple accident often results in serious injuries, from broken bones and torn ligaments to head or spinal trauma. Many victims face mounting medical bills and lost income, all because a property owner failed to keep their premises safe.

At Muawad PC, we represent individuals who have been injured due to unsafe or poorly maintained property conditions. Our firm holds negligent landlords, businesses, and property managers responsible for their inaction. We handle cases across Metro Detroit and throughout Michigan, ensuring victims get fair compensation for the harm they’ve suffered.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

Premises liability cases stem from a wide range of hazards, including:

  • Wet or slippery floors without warning signs

  • Uneven sidewalks or broken pavement

  • Poor lighting in stairwells or parking lots

  • Snow and ice accumulation

  • Loose carpeting or flooring defects

  • Obstructed walkways or hidden hazards

While some falls may appear minor, they often lead to long-term injuries that require surgery or rehabilitation. Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions and fix hazards promptly.

Understanding Michigan Premises Liability Law

Michigan law requires property owners and managers to take reasonable steps to ensure safety for all lawful visitors. This includes inspecting for dangers, fixing unsafe conditions, and warning visitors about hidden risks.

There are several categories of visitors under Michigan law:

  • Invitees: People invited onto the property for business purposes (e.g., customers, tenants). They’re owed the highest duty of care.

  • Licensees: Social guests or others lawfully present for non-business reasons.

  • Trespassers: Individuals without permission to be on the property. They’re owed limited protection except in specific cases (e.g., child trespassers).

A successful premises liability claim must prove:

  1. The property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition,

  2. They failed to fix it or warn visitors, and

  3. That negligence caused the injury.

The “Open and Obvious” Rule in Michigan

Michigan courts apply the “open and obvious” doctrine, which can limit recovery if the danger was easily visible or avoidable. However, there are important exceptions — particularly when the condition was unreasonably dangerous, unavoidable, or poorly maintained despite notice. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether your case falls within these exceptions.

The “Open and Obvious” Rule in Michigan

  • Most slip and fall lawsuits must be filed within three years of the date of injury.

  • Businesses and landlords have heightened responsibilities for snow and ice removal under Michigan’s Natural Accumulation Doctrine.

  • Photographs, surveillance footage, and incident reports are critical pieces of evidence.

  • Comparative negligence may reduce damages if the victim was partially at fault, but does not bar recovery.

Helpful Resources

All the answers you're looking for

Frequently Asked Questions

Report the incident to the property owner or manager, take photos of the hazard, gather witness names, and seek medical attention right away.

Yes. Michigan follows comparative negligence, meaning your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault but not eliminated entirely.

You may recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term rehabilitation costs.

You may still have a valid claim if the condition was unreasonably dangerous or unavoidable despite being visible.

Potentially the property owner, business tenant, landlord, or maintenance company — depending on who controlled or created the hazard.

Michigan law allows claims for icy conditions if the property owner failed to take reasonable measures to remove or treat the hazard within a reasonable time.

You generally have three years from the date of injury to file a premises liability lawsuit in Michigan.

These cases often hinge on subtle legal standards and expert evidence. An experienced attorney can identify liable parties, preserve critical evidence, and maximize your recovery.

Don't Wait - Get the Justice You Deserve

We offer free, no-obligation consultations for accident victims across Metro Detroit. There are no fees unless we win - let us review your case and options.