Orlando Slip and Fall Attorneys
Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of injury in the United States, particularly amongst older adults who are more likely to suffer complications from a fall. When a slip occurs and the affected person is injured, it is important to seek medical care immediately and explore the possibility of filing a slip and fall claim to recover compensation for damages.
Who Is Liable for a Florida Slip and Fall?
Slip and falls can happen for myriad reasons. Some falls are insignificant, and really are no one’s fault – for example, tripping over your own feet in your own house happens, and is usually mild.
Sometimes, though, slip and falls are serious and happen because of the negligence of another party. Some common causes of slip and falls include:
- Wet or slippery surfaces;
- Spills or food residue;
- Broken stairs, escalators, or elevators;
- Objects in way;
- Lack of handrails;
- Torn carpet; and
- Hazardous conditions, i.e. wiring, cords, etc.
When one of the above conditions causes a slip and fall accident, the property owner where the slip and fall occurred may be held liable.
Property Owner Liability for Slip and Fall Accidents
A property owner may be held liable for a slip and fall accident and related injuries if the slip and fall occurred because the property owner neglected their duty of care. A property owner has a duty to maintain their property in a safe and reasonably hazard-free condition, and to correct hazards in a reasonable amount of time from when they are discovered and to provide adequate warning of the hazard in the meantime. For example, if a property owner notices that a stair is broken on their property, it is reasonable for the owner to immediately put up a sign warning of the broken stair and to immediately schedule repairs, although actually repairing the stair could reasonably take a few days’ time.
Your Right to Recovery after a Florida Slip and Fall
If you have been involved in a slip and fall accident in Florida that you believe was caused by the negligence of a property owner, you will need to prove that:
- A hazard existed on the property;
- The owner knew or should have known of the hazard;
- The owner failed to correct the hazard within a reasonable amount of time; and
- The hazard was the direct cause of your slip and fall and injuries.
If you can prove the above, you may be able to recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and all other economic and noneconomic losses.
Contact Our Slip and Fall Attorneys in Florida Today
The laws for pursuing a slip and fall claim can be confusing, and it is important that you file your claim within four years from the date of accident to ensure you file within the state’s statute of limitations. At the law offices of Moses & Rooth, our experienced Florida slip and fall attorneys will guide you through the entire process, and help you to recover the compensation you deserve.
We can meet at your place of residence, the hospital, or at our offices. Just call us today to schedule your free consultation.