Slip and Fall Claims: What You Need to Know

November 18, 2025

Slip and fall cases used to be an uphill battle in Michigan. Not anymore.

The Open and Obvious Doctrine

For years, Michigan property owners hid behind 'open and obvious' as a complete defense. A 2023 Michigan Supreme Court ruling changed that — it's now just a factor in comparative fault, not a complete bar.

What You Still Have to Prove

The owner had notice of the hazard, failed to fix or warn, and that failure caused your injury.

Evidence You Want

Photos, incident reports, surveillance video, witness statements, weather data, and cleaning/maintenance logs. Video is especially time-sensitive — it often gets overwritten within days.

Common Hazards

Ice in parking lots, unmarked wet floors, broken stairs, loose handrails, potholes, bad lighting, and torn carpet are all frequent culprits.

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