What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in November

Michelle Saperstein  |  Nov 25 2025 20:00

As temperatures drop and Chicago heads into late fall, November brings a higher risk of slip and fall accidents. Wet leaves, early frost, holiday shopping crowds, and poorly maintained walkways can quickly create dangerous conditions. Whether you’re injured at a store, on a sidewalk, or at someone’s home, knowing what to do immediately after a slip and fall can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim.

 

At Saperstein Law Group, P.C., a respected Chicago personal injury law firm, we help injured victims understand their rights and pursue compensation after slip and fall accidents throughout the city and suburbs.

1. Seek Medical Attention Right Away

Even if you feel okay, slip and fall injuries—such as sprains, fractures, back injuries, and concussions—may not show symptoms immediately.

Seeing a doctor promptly:

  • Ensures your injuries are properly diagnosed

  • Creates crucial medical documentation for your claim

  • Protects your long-term health

Delaying treatment can weaken your case.

2. Report the Incident to the Property Owner or Manager

Where you fell will determine who you report the accident to:

  • Store or business → Ask for a manager

  • Apartment building → Contact the landlord or property manager

  • Public property → Notify the city or appropriate authority

Request that a formal incident report be completed, and ask for a copy if possible.

3. Document the Scene Before It Changes

November weather conditions in Chicago—rain, frost, and leaf buildup—can change quickly. Take photos or videos as soon as possible, including:

  • The hazardous condition (wet floor, ice patch, uneven pavement, debris, etc.)

  • The surrounding area

  • Your injuries

  • Your shoes and clothing

The more evidence you gather, the better your attorney can prove negligence.

4. Collect Witness Information

If anyone saw your fall or noticed the dangerous condition beforehand, try to get:

  • Name

  • Phone number

  • Brief description of what they observed

Witness statements can be powerful evidence, especially if the property owner disputes responsibility.

5. Avoid Giving Statements to Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters may contact you soon after your fall. Their goal is to minimize payouts—not protect your rights.

Do not:

  • Admit fault

  • Speculate about what happened

  • Accept early settlement offers

  • Provide recorded statements

Instead, direct all communication to your attorney at Saperstein Law Group, P.C.

6. Preserve All Evidence

Keep everything related to the incident, including:

  • Medical records and bills

  • Receipts for medication or medical equipment

  • Documentation of missed work

  • Torn or damaged clothing

These items help build a strong claim for compensation.

7. Contact a Chicago Slip and Fall Attorney

Slip and fall cases often involve complicated questions of liability, especially when weather conditions or maintenance issues are involved. An experienced attorney at Saperstein Law Group, P.C. can help you determine whether the property owner:

  • Failed to maintain safe walkways

  • Ignored hazardous conditions

  • Did not remove snow, ice, or leaves in a timely manner

  • Lacked proper lighting or warning signs

Our team handles everything—from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies—so you can focus on healing.

Why Choose Saperstein Law Group, P.C.

Saperstein Law Group, P.C., based in Chicago, has extensive experience handling slip and fall and premises liability cases. We know how to investigate unsafe property conditions, fight for your rights, and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries—especially during high-risk months like November.