Slip and Fall Accident in Florida
A slip and fall incident can be physically painful, emotionally taxing, and legally complex. In Florida, when an individual suffers a slip and fall that results in an injury, taking the appropriate steps is essential to ensure their well-being and protect their potential legal rights. Here are the steps victims should take as they pursue a potential claim:
1. Seek Medical Attention
- Even if injuries seem minor initially, it’s essential to see a doctor and be evaluated after a slip and fall.
- Some injuries are not noticeable immediately but can have long-term consequences.
- If you decide to pursue legal action, medical records will serve as crucial evidence!
2. Report the Incident
- Inform the property owner, manager, or landlord about the incident.
- If the slip and fall incident occurred in a commercial venue, like a store, there should be an official incident report.
- Make sure you get a copy of the report if possible.
3. Document EVERYTHING
- If possible, take photos of the exact location of the slip and fall, any hazardous conditions that contributed to the accident, and all your injuries.
- Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Keep records of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses.
- Be sure to keep a list of work and daily activities you miss, or can no longer participate in due to the injuries.
4. Avoid Making Detailed Statements
- Be cautious when discussing the incident, especially with property owners or insurance representatives.
- DO NOT admit fault, or provide detailed accounts without first consulting a personal injury lawyer.
- Stay off social media! Anything you post online that deviates from the official version of events could be used as a reason to deny your claim.
5. Retain Footwear and Clothing
- The shoes and clothing you were wearing during the slip and fall can serve as evidence.
- They can potentially help show such things as the condition of the floor or surface you may have slipped on, and how it contributed to the accident.
6. Understand Florida’s Statute of Limitations
- In Florida, the statute of limitations to file slip and fall claims was just cut in half.
- Previously, it had been four years from the date of the incident. New legislation (Florida Statutes § 95.11(3)(a)) has cut it to two years.
- If you don’t file a lawsuit within the two-year timeframe, you may lose the right to.
7. Be Aware of Florida’s Comparative Fault Rule
- Recently, Florida changed from following a Pure Comparative Negligence rule to a Modified Comparative Negligence system.
- Under the new legislation, if the insurance company convinces a jury you are more than 50% at fault for your injuries, you get NONE of your medical bills paid off, and NOTHING for future pain and suffering.
8. Notify Your Insurance Company
- Inform your insurance provider about the slip and fall accident.
- If you decide to pursue a claim, having a clear record of where and when you sought medical treatment can be essential.
9. Follow Medical Advice and Treatment Plans
- Adhering to the medical advice and treatment plans provided by healthcare professionals is crucial for recovery!
- It also strengthens the credibility of your slip and fall injury claim.
10. Consult with GOLDLAW!
- GOLDLAW’s legal team has extensive experience handling slip and fall claims.
- The firm has a proven track record of success securing major settlements and jury verdicts on behalf of slip and fall victims throughout Florida.
- Your legal team will remain in constant contact with you for the duration of your case, so you will never be left with any questions or concerns related to your situation.
Have you been injured in a slip and fall caused by someone else’s negligence? The GOLDLAW team has the resources and experience to handle every aspect of your claim. Call 561-222-2222 or reach out to a legal expert for a FREE consultation today!