Who is liable for a Lauderhill slip-and-fall accident?
In Florida, property owners are duty-bound to maintain safe premises for visitors. Liability for slip-and-fall accidents typically falls on:
- Property Owners: Those who own the property where the accident occurred. This can include a slippery floor in Lauderhill Mall.
- Business Operators: Tenants or businesses leasing the property must maintain safe conditions within their leased space.
- Government Entities: The government entity may be liable if the accident occurs on government-owned property, such as a public park or building.
For instance, if Central Broward Regional Park has uneven paths or inadequate lighting, the government is responsible for injuries.
A guest slipped and fell in my rental apartment. Who is liable?
In a rented property, the tenant is typically responsible for any hazards they are aware of or should have been aware of that injure a guest or visitor. Consider rental liability insurance to protect yourself.
How long can I wait before filing a Lauderhill slip-and-fall accident claim?
In Lauderhill, FL, you have four years from the date of your slip-and-fall accident to file a lawsuit against the property owner. If you miss this deadline, you forfeit compensation for your injuries under Florida Statutes section 95.11(3)(a). It applies to most personal injury claims in the state.
The statute of limitations is a strict deadline. Waiting that long to file a lawsuit can negatively impact your settlement. Additionally, the four-year limit is the timeframe to file a lawsuit, not to resolve it. Therefore, seek legal advice promptly if you’re considering legal action after a slip-and-fall accident in Florida.
What is premise liability?
Property owners, managers, and landlords are legally obliged to maintain safe properties for visitors. This includes customers, contractors, employees, tenants, and residents. If someone is injured on an unsafe property, it constitutes premise liability. Skilled personal injury attorneys can help you strengthen your case.
What should I do if I slip and injure myself at work?
The first thing you should do is protect your legal rights. If you need emergency care, dial 911 or ask someone to call for help. Afterward, if possible, follow these steps:
- Report the Accident: Notify your supervisor or employer about the accident immediately. An incident report detailing the accident is important for a slip-and-fall claim.
- Get Medical Aid: Get a check-up promptly, even if injuries aren’t apparent. Some unapparent and untreated injuries may worsen over time.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of the accident, including photos of the scene and visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses who saw it happen.
- Follow Medical Advice: Follow the recommended treatment plan by your healthcare provider. Failure to follow medical advice could impact your workers’ compensation claim.
- Notify Your Insurance: If applicable, inform your health insurance provider about the accident. Workers’ compensation benefits may cover medical expenses and lost wages related to the injury.
Who can get into a slip-and-fall accident?
Anyone can become a victim of slip-and-fall accidents when encountering hazardous walking surfaces. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury and death in older adults. Slip-and-fall incidents are common in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and among workers, especially on construction sites.
What damages can a slip-and-fall victim claim?
Victims may receive compensation for the following slip-and-fall damages:
- Healthcare costs, including medical bills and rehabilitation expenses
- Pain and suffering, such as physical and emotional distress
- Lost income and future earning capacity
- Property damage expenses, such as damage to clothing or personal belongings
Law firms specializing in personal injury handle slip-and-fall accident cases to help victims recover compensation for damages.