Recovering Damages After a Slip and Fall: Your Rights
Walking into a store, enjoying a day out at a theme park, or simply walking on a sidewalk—these are everyday activities that we should be able to do without fear of injury. Yet, a sudden slip, trip, or fall can turn an ordinary outing into a life-altering event.
At Reese Legal, Attorney Michael Reese understands just how upsetting a slip and fall accident can be. One moment, everything seems fine, and in the next, you're dealing with physical pain, medical bills, and potential time away from work.
In addition, questions about medical bills, lost wages, and who is truly at fault can make an already stressful situation even harder to bear. But you don’t have to face this alone.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the Orlando area, it’s important to understand your rights and the steps you can take to secure fair compensation. With over 27 years of legal experience, Attorney Michael Reese is here to guide you through the process of recovering damages.
Understanding Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents fall under the broader category of premises liability cases. These incidents occur when a property owner or manager fails to maintain safe conditions on their premises, leading to hazards that cause injuries.
Common causes of slip and fall accidents include wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, loose rugs, defective stairs, and debris left in walkways. When you experience a slip and fall, it’s essential to determine whether negligence played a role in the accident.
Property owners and managers have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. If they fail to address or warn about a hazardous condition they knew about—or should have known about—they may be held liable for injuries that occur as a result.
Your Rights as an Injury Victim
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, one of your most important rights is the right to seek compensation for your damages. This can include medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, and other associated expenses.
Florida law provides specific protections for those injured due to negligence. However, Florida also follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that your compensation may be reduced if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident.
For instance, if you were texting on your phone and failed to notice a wet floor sign, your own actions might be considered contributory. That’s why gathering evidence and building a strong case is critical to protecting your right to full and fair compensation.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall
If you’ve been involved in a slip and fall accident, taking prompt action can greatly improve your chances of recovering the damages you deserve. While every situation is unique, we recommend following these steps after an accident:
1. Seek medical attention immediately.
Your health and safety should always be your top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s vital to have a medical professional evaluate your condition to identify any underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent. Additionally, proper documentation of your injuries will be crucial evidence in your case.
2. Report the accident.
Notify the property owner, manager, or another appropriate party about the incident as soon as possible. Request a written report and retain a copy for your records. If the accident occurs in a commercial establishment such as a grocery store, hotel, or theme park, this step is especially important.
3. Collect evidence at the scene.
If you’re able, take photos or videos of the area where the accident occurred. Focus on capturing any hazards, such as spills, broken tiles, or inadequate lighting conditions. Gather contact information from witnesses who can testify about the events leading up to the accident.
4. Keep records.
Maintain detailed records of all lost income, medical expenses, and other out-of-pocket costs related to your injury. This will help to quantify your damages and support your claim.
Slip and Fall FAQs in Florida
Slip and fall accidents can be both physically and financially devastating, and victims often have many questions about their rights and options under Florida law. Below are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding slip and fall cases in the state:
Who can be held liable for a slip and fall in Florida?
Liability for a slip and fall depends on the circumstances of the accident. Property owners, business operators, and landlords could be held responsible if negligence, such as failing to address a known hazard, led to your injury. Under Florida law, you must prove that the property owner either knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to take reasonable steps to fix it.
How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Florida?
The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Florida, including slip and fall cases, typically allows four years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. For cases involving government properties, shorter deadlines and additional requirements may apply.
What if my actions contributed to the accident?
Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that if you were partially at fault for your slip and fall, your compensation could be reduced by the percentage of your own fault. For example, if you are found 30% responsible, you could still recover 70% of the damages.
Do I need a lawyer for a slip and fall case in Florida?
It is highly recommended. Florida slip and fall claims can be complicated, especially when gathering evidence and proving negligence. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, handle negotiations, and represent you in court if necessary.
How We Can Help
At Reese Legal, we provide personalized and compassionate representation to clients across Orlando and the surrounding areas, including Windermere, Winter Park, Doctor Phillips, and Bay Hill. While our office is conveniently located just one mile from Universal Studios, we’re equally committed to serving the needs of both locals and tourists who find themselves injured on someone else’s property.
With over 27 years of experience in personal injury law, we have the knowledge and resources needed to effectively represent you in your slip and fall case. From investigating the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and, if needed, fighting for you in court, we’ll be by your side every step of the way. Our commitment is to secure the best possible outcome for you.
Compassionate Legal Representation
When you choose Reese Legal, you’re not just hiring an attorney—you’re partnering with an advocate who is dedicated to protecting your rights. His personalized approach enables him to focus on your unique needs, and his extensive experience brings a deep understanding of personal injury law to every case.
Attorney Michael Reese's office is strategically located to serve the Orlando community and its visitors, and his local insight is an asset when handling slip and fall cases in the area. Knowing the ins and outs of local properties and businesses gives the firm's attorney an advantage in identifying potential negligence and advocating for your rights.