Tort cases involving slip and fall accidents present many legal and logistical challenges. In Florida, slipping and falling on another person’s property does not automatically make that person or entity legally liable.
In the Sunshine State, falling accidents are usually encompassed by premises liability law. Premises liability cases are those in which a property owner or manager is legally accountable for ensuring their premises are reasonably safe and hazard-free.
If a business or residence visitor suffers an injury because of the owner’s negligence or carelessness, they have a right to pursue financial recovery. Florida state law maintains that the claimant in this type of case must prove that the responsible party knew about the dangerous situation on their property.
They must also show that the at-fault party did not take appropriate action to fix the problem. When these conditions have been met, the plaintiff may be awarded compensation for their losses.
Some of the most common examples of hazardous conditions on premises are:
- Slippery or wet surfaces or walkways
- Snow or ice on a sidewalk or other path
- Broken or cracked sidewalks or curbs
- Broken or uneven stairs
- Lack of handrail on a staircase or walkway
- Uneven surfaces and floors
It is critical to secure evidence before leaving the scene of a slip and fall accident. This can bolster your legal claim and ensure you recover all the money you deserve.
Important Questions to Ask Following a Slip and Fall Accident
Fully understanding the situation is crucial to recover financial compensation after an accident. Make sure to ask the following questions about your Florida injury case:
- Did the owner know about the hazardous condition?
- How serious is the victim’s physical and emotional damage?
- Did the falling accident cause the person’s injuries?
- Did anyone witness the slip and fall accident?
- How long has the hazardous condition been present?
Answering these important questions will help you prove that the property owner or operator was negligent in your case.
Proving Negligence in Florida Slip and Fall Accident Cases
One of the most challenging elements of a slip and fall accident claim is proving negligence. Even if the liable party admits that the injury resulted from a dangerous condition on their property, they may claim they were unaware of the situation.
In Florida, plaintiffs must provide evidence of the premises owner’s knowledge about the hazard. You must also show that they did not take steps to remedy the situation.
After a slip and fall accident, a knowledgeable legal professional will help build a strong case for you in the following ways:
- Speaking with eyewitnesses to the fall
- Securing surveillance footage of the fall
- Obtaining medical records and other important documents
- Footage establishing how long the hazard existed
A skilled tort attorney will conduct an exhaustive investigation of the circumstances of your slip and fall circumstances. The evidence they recover will help corroborate your account of the events.
Damages Available Through a Florida Slip and Fall Case
If you are considering filing a slip and fall accident claim, you may be unsure about the kinds of financial compensation you can recover. The amount you can obtain will depend on the facts of your case.
However, many falling accident victims can secure compensation for the following:
- Lost wages
- Lost earning ability
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
Speak with a knowledgeable Florida tort lawyer to determine the value of your slip and fall claim.
Schedule a Consultation Today
When you need skilled legal representation for a Florida slip and fall claim, contact the Schrier Law Group team. Our team understands what it takes to pursue compensation for falling accident victims. Contact our firm to schedule a no-cost consultation to review your legal options today!
