Pensacola Slip & Fall Attorney

Advocating for Slip & Fall Accident Victims in Florida

Slip and fall accidents can arise from various hazards. It could be caused by a wet spot on the floor in a commercial building. Injuries can occur at outdoor events or picnics due to uneven ground. The results can be medical bills, rehabilitation, missed work, and an uncertain road to recovery. The property owner might be held responsible for the injuries. The key will be whether the property owner exercised reasonable care in the circumstances that led to the accident.  In cases like these, our Pensacola slip and fall lawyer can help pursue the compensation you deserve.

Injured in a Slip & Fall Accident? Don't wait to seek the compensation you deserve. Call (850) 220-2098 now or contact us online for a free consultation!

Common Injuries Resulting from Slip & Fall Accidents 

Slip and fall accidents can happen unexpectedly and result in serious injuries, often leaving victims with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Some of the most common injuries may include:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of a fall can often lead to fractures and broken bones concerning various parts of the body, such as the wrists, ankles, and hips.
• Head Injuries: Slip and fall accidents often result in head injuries, ranging from concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries may have long-term consequences, impacting cognitive function and quality of life. 
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: These falls can cause substantial damage to the back and spinal cord, leading to chronic pain, paralysis, or other debilitating conditions.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and other soft tissue injuries are common in slip and fall accidents, often causing prolonged pain and discomfort.
• Bruises and Contusions: While seemingly less severe, bruises and contusions can still cause pain and may indicate more severe internal injuries.

Establishing Liability in Slip & Fall Incidents

Florida courts do not hold property owners responsible for preventing all accidents on their property. Rather, they are expected to take reasonable measures to ensure the safety of individuals. 

For instance, if a person slips and falls in a store, the cause of the fall needs to be determined. Was it a spill that was not cleaned up in a timely manner? If the spill occurred early in the day and the fall happened much later, the business might be held responsible for not cleaning the area promptly. 

However, if an employee was on their way to clean the spill when the fall occurred, the plaintiff might have a harder case. The same principle applies to other slip & fall cases. Were guests at a private picnic warned of uneven or potentially hazardous areas?

In all of these cases, the court must determine if the property owner could have reasonably foreseen the potential danger and if they took adequate steps to address it.

Our Pensacola slip and fall attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident to be sure that reasonable care was taken. If it was not, be assured that we’ll fight hard for a fair settlement. 

What Damages Can Be Recovered in Slip & Fall Cases?

Once it is established that a property owner has violated their duty of care, resulting in the plaintiff's injury, the focus shifts to achieving an equitable settlement.  There are three components of any damages award:

• Economic damages: These include direct and measurable costs, such as medical bills, lost income, and rehabilitation expenses. 
• Pain and suffering: These damages are challenging to quantify, but their impact is very real. Long-lasting injuries can impact one's enjoyment of life and cause emotional trauma. The courts can attempt to provide compensation for pain and suffering by taking into account witness testimony from the injured person's life.
• Punitive damages: These damages are usually awarded to send a message that the defendant's negligence is unacceptable. Under Florida law, punitive damages can be as much as three times the rest of the settlement award, up to $500,000. 

Preventing Slip & Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can be avoided when property owners take the necessary precautions to maintain a safe environment. Ensuring proper upkeep and identifying potential hazards can reduce the risk of injuries.

Tips for Property Owners to Maintain a Safe Environment:

• Regular Inspections – Frequently check floors, sidewalks, and stairs for hazards.
• Prompt Repairs – Fix loose handrails, uneven flooring, and broken tiles as soon as possible.
• Adequate Lighting – Ensure that all walkways, hallways, and parking lots are well-lit.
• Proper Signage – Use "Wet Floor" signs and other warnings to alert visitors of potential dangers.
• Weather Preparedness – Address rain, ice, or snow buildup to prevent slippery surfaces.

Common Hazards That Lead to Slip & Fall Accidents and How to Address Them:

• Wet or Slippery Floors – Use non-slip mats and clean up spills immediately.
• Cluttered Walkways – Keep hallways and aisles free from obstacles.
• Uneven Surfaces – Repair cracked pavement and uneven floorboards.
• Defective Stairs – Fix broken steps and install handrails.
• Poor Maintenance – Ensure carpets and rugs are securely in place to prevent tripping.

How Insurance Companies Handle Slip & Fall Claims

After a slip and fall accident, dealing with an insurance company can be challenging. Understanding the process can help you avoid common pitfalls.

What to Expect When Dealing with an Insurance Adjuster:

• The adjuster will investigate the claim by reviewing medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.
• They may request a recorded statement, but it’s advisable to consult with a lawyer before speaking with them.
• Insurers will evaluate whether negligence played a role in the accident and assess liability.

Common Tactics Insurers Use to Reduce or Deny Claims:

• Blaming the Victim – Claiming the injured party was not paying attention.
• Downplaying Injuries – Arguing that the injuries are minor or unrelated.
• Delaying Payouts – Taking too long to process claims in hopes the victim will settle for less.
• Offering Low Settlements – Providing an initial offer that may not fully cover medical expenses and lost wages.

Slip & Fall Accidents in Public vs. Private Property

Slip and fall liability varies based on where the accident occurs. Different rules apply depending on whether the incident happens on public or private property.

Differences in Legal Responsibilities:

• Businesses & Commercial Properties – Storeowners and landlords must ensure their premises are safe for customers and tenants. Failure to fix hazards could result in liability.
• Homeowners – Private property owners may be liable if they were aware of a dangerous condition but failed to fix it or warn visitors.
• Government Property – Special rules apply when filing a claim against a city or state entity, and the process may involve additional restrictions and shorter deadlines.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial when pursuing a slip and fall claim. Consulting an attorney can help determine liability and the best course of action.

What is the Statute of Limitations for Slip & Fall Accident Claims in Florida?

Time is of the essence when pursuing a slip and fall accident claim in Florida. The statute of limitations imposes a deadline for filing a lawsuit to pursue compensation for your injuries. In the state of Florida, the statute of limitations for slip and fall claims is typically four years from the accident date.

It is crucial to act promptly and consult with a skilled Pensacola slip & fall attorney to ensure compliance with this time restriction. Failing to file within the specified timeframe could result in the forfeiture of your right to pursue compensation. At Crawford Law, we are well-versed in Florida's statutes of limitations and will work diligently to gather evidence, assess liability, and file your claim within the required timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slip & Fall Accidents

What should I do immediately after a slip and fall accident?

• If you fall, try to remain calm and assess your injuries. Seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel hurt right away, as some injuries take time to appear. Report the accident to the property owner or manager and document everything by taking photos and collecting witness statements. Finally, contact a slip and fall attorney to discuss your legal options.

Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault for my slip and fall accident?

• Yes, Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your settlement may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found 20% responsible, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. A lawyer can help argue against unfair blame to maximize your recovery.

How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in Florida?

• Florida law gives you four years from the date of the accident to file a slip and fall lawsuit. However, if the accident occurred on government property, the timeframe may be shorter. Missing the deadline could mean losing your right to compensation, so it’s important to take action as soon as possible.

What if my slip and fall accident happened at work?

• If you slipped and fell at work, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. This could cover medical bills and lost wages without needing to prove fault. However, if a third party (such as a building owner or contractor) contributed to your accident, you may also have a personal injury claim. Speaking with an attorney can help you explore all available options.

Do all slip and fall cases go to court?

• No, most slip and fall cases are settled outside of court through negotiations with the insurance company. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, taking the case to court may be necessary to secure the compensation you deserve. An experienced attorney can guide you through the best course of action based on your situation.

Get in Touch with Our Pensacola Slip & Fall Accident Lawyer Today

Prompt and clear communication is crucial in the immediate aftermath of a slip and fall. The victim should inform the property owner right away, seek medical care, and contact our Pensacola slip and fall lawyer. 

However, it is unwise to tell the property owner that one is feeling fine since injuries can take time to manifest. Any statements indicating good health can potentially harm a personal injury case. Moreover, social media posts claiming recovery after a fall can also negatively affect the case. 

The best course of action is to keep communication simple and only relay necessary information to the property owner, seek medical attention, and contact an attorney.

Holding Negligent Property Owners Accountable! If you've been hurt in a slip and fall, we’re here to help. Call (850) 220-2098 today or contact us to discuss your case!