Premises Liability: Slippery Floors, Uneven Surfaces, and More

In Florida, premises liability law protects those injured on someone else’s property. This area of law establishes a clear duty of care.

If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim. Property owners and those who manage property have a legal duty to make their premises reasonably safe for visitors. When that duty isn’t upheld, accidents can happen, leading to serious injuries.

The experienced Florida slip and fall injury attorneys at The Morgan Law Group are here to help you navigate Florida premises liability law. We understand the complex nature of these cases and are passionate about helping victims of premises liability accidents receive fair compensation.

Common Premises Liability Cases in Florida

Many types of accidents can fall under the umbrella of premises liability. Some of the most common cases a Florida slip and fall accident attorney handles include:

1. Slippery Floor Accidents: Wet, waxed, or icy floors can create slip and fall hazards. Businesses, particularly grocery stores, have a legal obligation to quickly clean up spills and warn customers of any wet floor conditions. Failure to do so can lead to serious injuries.
2. Uneven Surfaces Hazards: Uneven flooring, loose carpeting, potholes, raised or sunken spots on walkways, and other surface irregularities can cause people to trip and fall. Property owners must diligently maintain their premises to avoid these hazards.
3. Cracked Sidewalks: Responsibility for sidewalk maintenance may fall on the owner of the adjacent property. Cracked, crumbling sidewalks create significant tripping hazards, especially for the elderly or those with mobility limitations.
4. Broken Steps: Loose handrails, broken treads, or uneven risers on staircases can lead to dangerous falls. Property owners must ensure that stairways are structurally sound and comply with safety codes.
5. Chipped Flooring Tiles: Flooring tiles that are broken or chipped become potential tripping hazards indoors. Businesses and homeowners alike need to repair or replace damaged flooring promptly to prevent accidents.

If you’ve been injured due to a dangerous condition on someone else’s property, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights. Our experienced Florida premises liability attorney can assess your situation and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.

Premises Liability Claim: Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Injury

If you suffer a slip and fall injury, taking the right steps can significantly impact the outcome of your premises liability claim in Florida.

1. Seek Medical Attention: Get prompt treatment for your injuries. This is essential for your health and creates official documentation of the harm caused by the accident. Keep copies of all medical records and bills.
2. Report the Accident: Immediately notify the property owner, manager, or a responsible employee of the incident. If possible, obtain a written incident report documenting the date, time, and circumstances of your fall.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos of the dangerous condition that caused your fall, your injuries, and the overall scene of the accident. If there were witnesses, try to get their names and contact information.
4. Document Everything:  Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s wise to start a log or journal. Write down how you feel each day, what activities you’re limited in doing, and any conversations you have with insurance representatives or the property owner.
5. Contact an Attorney: An experienced attorney can protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf.

Time is of the essence after a premises liability accident. The sooner you act to preserve evidence and seek legal advice, the stronger your potential claim. Our experienced Florida premises liability attorney can help you take these steps strategically and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Negligence in Premises Liability Claims in Florida

Florida premises liability claim rests on proving negligence on the part of the property owner or manager. To win your case, you and your attorney must demonstrate the following:

1. A dangerous condition existed on the property.  This could be anything from a wet floor to a broken handrail. You’ll need evidence, such as photos and witness statements to prove the hazard existed.
2. The owner knew or should have known about the danger. This is where things can become more complex. Did the owner directly cause the unsafe condition? If not, was it present for a long enough time that the owner reasonably should have discovered it through regular maintenance and inspection?
3. The owner failed to act reasonably to fix the problem or warn visitors. Once a dangerous condition is known, property owners have a duty to take action. Simple warning signs might suffice in some cases, while other situations require immediate repair or closure of the unsafe area.

Premises liability cases often hinge on what a “reasonable” property owner would have done. An experienced Florida slip and fall injury attorney understands how to present these arguments convincingly.

Legal Representation Is Crucial in Premises Liability Cases

Premises liability cases, such as slip and fall injury claims, may require professional legal attention. The Morgan Law Group, your Florida personal injury attorney, possesses extensive experience in handling a wide range of premises liability claims. With a robust track record, our team ensures meticulous legal representation.

Engaging a skilled premises liability attorney can make a significant difference in your case. An attorney will help in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and if necessary, litigating in court to protect your interests. Remember, the sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome.

Whether you are a victim of a slip and fall accident or any other premises-related injury, seeking prompt legal advice is crucial. Contact us today to ensure your rights are fully protected. Let us guide you through your recovery journey, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.