In the State of Florida, the Florida Premises Liability Law exists such that property owners are required to maintain their property as a safe and hazard-free zone for those who visit their areas. Thus, if the property owner or manager sees – or should have seen – a potentially unsafe situation, they must take immediate action to address any issue.
If the owner of the property is unable to act and correct the problem immediately, he must inform any visitors of the area of any possible hazards. For example, he could block the area or place the necessary signage in such a way that danger can be avoided. If he failed to meet these standards, and someone gets injured as a result, he may be liable for the said injuries.
Below are the most common scenarios that lead to slip-and-fall accidents:
- Uneven walking surfaces, broken pavements
- Unmarked obstacles, steps, curb or extension cords, wet and slippery surfaces, spills, or water leak
- Improperly maintained property, potholes in a parking lot
- Stairs or steps without handrails
These are some of the most common situations that result in slips and falls. However, almost any other hazardous condition can cause these types of accidents. Victims may suffer both minor and major injuries such as broken bones, dislocated joints, spinal, neck, or back injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.
What to Do if You Have Been Injured
If you happen to slip and fall in a public place, the first thing you should do is ask for help and seek immediate medical attention. Remember to not ignore any injuries no matter how minor it is. Inform the property owner or manager about the incident and exchange name and contact information.
Witnesses are also valuable in these kinds of situations so it is better to talk to any witnesses that may have been present. Make note of their names and contact information. Nowadays, CCTVs are also present in almost every establishment, your attorney will work to obtain a copy of the incident. Also, if you can, take pictures of the hazard that caused your injury and of the injury itself.
After you have sought medical attention, be sure to contact a personal injury lawyer to assist you in requesting compensation for your injuries. Slip-and-fall claims are often branded as false or exaggerated by businesses and insurance companies. Sometimes, they try to discourage you by refusing to negotiate a settlement. Having a lawyer to assist you can help demonstrate the sincerity of your claim. Darfoor Law Firm specializes in Personal Injury Claims and has free consultation and case evaluation.
Your attorney will also be better equipped to acquire other important evidence for your cases, such as video surveillance footage, statements of the employees, and company safety policies.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in a slip-and-fall accident, it is crucial to have a representative on your side that understands, sympathizes, and does their best in helping you get the compensation you are entitled to.
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