Florida Slip and Fall Lawyers
While slip and falls appear to be common, these cases are often serious because they can result in significant injuries and legal implications. When someone slips or trips on a hazardous surface, they may suffer fractures, head injuries, or soft tissue damage, leading to pain, medical expenses, and even long-term disability. In these cases, Florida property owners or businesses can be held liable for failing to maintain safe premises, potentially facing costly lawsuits and damage to their reputations. Florida slip and fall cases can be complex.
These cases require a comprehensive understanding of statutory, procedural, and evidentiary rules. If you are facing injuries from a slip, trip, or fall, contact a Florida slip and fall lawyer at Arias & Abbass Your Attorneys. A Florida slip and fall attorney on our team can help you learn about your rights and remedies if you suffered injuries because of another’s negligence.
Rate of Slip and Falls in Florida
Unintentional injuries are among the leading causes of severe injuries and death across the nation. Recent data in Florida indicates there were 473,721 emergency room visits related to non-fatal unintentional falls, 75,570 hospitalizations for non-fatal accidental falls, and 4,178 deaths from unintentional falls. Florida’s climate and tourism industry contribute to the prevalence of slip and fall accidents, as wet surfaces near pools or on sidewalks, uneven terrain in theme parks, and crowded public spaces can increase the risk.
Common Injuries from Florida Slip and Fall
Slip and fall accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries. Firstly, head injuries are a significant concern, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, as victims may strike their heads during a fall. Second, fractures in the wrists, arms, and hips, often result from trying to break the fall with outstretched hands or impact on hard surfaces. Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains are frequent, affecting the ligaments, tendons, and muscles, leading to pain and limited mobility.
Spinal injuries, including herniated discs or compression fractures, can occur if the spine is twisted or impacted during a fall. Back injuries can be debilitating and require extensive medical treatment. Contusions and abrasions are common, causing bruising and skin damage due to direct contact with the ground or objects. Slip and fall accidents can also exacerbate pre-existing medical conditions, such as arthritis or osteoporosis.
Who Is Liable After a Slip and Fall Accident?
Many individuals can be found liable for slip and fall accidents in Florida. These responsible parties include:
- Property owners. Whether owned by individuals or corporations, property owners are primarily responsible for maintaining safe premises and promptly addressing hazards.
- Landlords. Those who retain control over the property’s maintenance may be liable.
- Tenants. Renters can be held accountable if their actions or negligence contribute to hazardous conditions.
- Business operators. Store owners or managers are responsible for ensuring customer safety and addressing dangers on their premises. Liability may extend to contractors or maintenance companies if their work creates unsafe conditions.
Determining the liable party often depends on the specific circumstances of the accident.
How to Determine Liability After a Slip and Fall Accident
Property owners in Florida have a duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition and promptly address any known hazards or dangers. However, this duty is not absolute, and the level of care required may vary depending on the circumstances. Factors like the type of property, the purpose of the visit, and the foreseeability of the hazard can all impact liability.
Florida follows a legal doctrine known as comparative negligence, which means that responsibility for the accident can be shared between the injured party and the property owner or occupier. This doctrine allows for a more nuanced assessment of liability based on the actions and negligence of both parties. The court may reduce the victim’s compensation based on their degree of fault for the accident.
Ultimately, liability in Florida slip and fall cases can be complex and fact-specific. An experienced personal injury attorney can conduct a thorough investigation, obtain expert testimony, and provide legal expertise to establish or defend against a claim.
Collecting Damages for Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and fall injuries can have long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences, making it crucial for victims to seek legal and medical assistance in the aftermath of an incident.
A Miami slip and fall lawyer can play a critical role in helping collect damages after a Florida slip and fall accident by navigating the legal complexities and advocating for the victim’s rights.
A slip and fall attorney in Miami can:
- Investigate the case by reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident reports;
- Analyze the circumstances of the accident to identify the responsible parties;
- Negotiate with insurance companies and liable parties to secure a fair settlement that adequately covers medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering; and
- Pursue litigation by filing a lawsuit and representing your interests in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
A slip and fall lawyer in Florida is integral to navigating the state’s legal process, building a solid case, negotiating effectively, and collecting the damages you deserve after an accident.
If You Have Been Injured on Another’s Property, Our Slip and Fall Law Firm Can Help
If you’ve been hurt in a slip and fall accident, a Miami slip and fall lawyer at Arias & Abbass can help you pursue a claim for compensation. At Arias & Abbass Your Attorneys, our skilled lawyers have extensive experience handling all types of injury claims in Miami and the surrounding areas. We understand what you’ve been through and are here to help make you whole again. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers, call us. You can also reach us through our secure online contact form.