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Slip and Fall Lawyer
We are one of the best Fort Lauderdale slip and fall law firms.
Have You Recently Been Involved in a Slip-And-Fall Accident in Fort Lauderdale?
Goldberg & Loren are experienced slip-and-fall attorneys who are dedicated to fighting for your rights. We have a proven track record of success in obtaining compensation for our clients who have suffered injuries due to unsafe premises.
If you are seeking justice and fair compensation for your pain, medical expenses, and lost wages, then Goldberg & Loren are the attorneys you need on your side. We have the knowledge, experience, and resources to help you navigate the legal process and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today for a free complimentary consultation to discuss your case and let us fight for you.
What is a Slip and Fall Attorney?
A slip-and-fall attorney is a legal professional who specializes in representing individuals who have been injured in slip-and-fall accidents. These accidents can occur in a variety of settings, such as grocery stores, malls, restaurants, or even public sidewalks. When someone slips, trips, or falls due to a hazardous or dangerous condition on someone else’s property, they may be eligible to seek compensation for their injuries.
These injuries can lead to extensive medical bills and ongoing medical expenses. In some cases, victims of slip and fall accidents may be unable to work due to their injuries, resulting in lost wages and financial hardship.
Our Fort Lauderdale, slip and fall attorneys at Goldberg & Loren understand the complexities of premises liability claims. We are well-versed in the laws and regulations that govern property owners’ responsibility to maintain a safe environment for visitors.
When someone is injured in a slip and fall accident, it is important to gather evidence to support their personal injury claim. This may include taking photographs of the accident scene, obtaining witness statements, and obtaining the accident report, if applicable.
An experienced personal injury lawyer from Goldberg & Loren guides accident victims through this process and ensures that all necessary evidence is gathered to build a strong case.
By hiring our personal injury attorneys, accident victims can level the playing field against insurance companies and property owners.
Our attorneys at Goldberg & Loren have the knowledge and expertise to negotiate with insurance companies, seeking fair compensation for the injured party’s medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are prepared to take legal action and fight for their client’s rights in court.
Falls account for over 8 million hospital emergency room visits, representing the leading cause of visits (21.3%). Slips and falls account for over 1 million visits or 12% of total falls. [1]
Table of Contents
The Duty of Care
Property owners have a legal duty of care to ensure the safety of their premises and protect visitors from potential harm. This duty extends to business owners, insurance companies, and individuals who own or manage properties. When property owners fail to meet these obligations, they can be held responsible for injuries that occur as a result.
The duty of care requires property owners to maintain their premises in a safe condition and promptly address any hazardous conditions that could cause harm to visitors.
This includes ensuring that walkways and floors are free from hazardous substances, such as water, oil, or other slippery substances, that can lead to slip-and-fall accidents.
Property owners should also regularly inspect their premises for dangerous conditions, such as uneven surfaces, broken handrails, or other hazards that can lead to accidents.
Property owners also have a duty to warn visitors of any known hazards that may not be immediately apparent. For example, if a property owner is aware of a slippery floor due to recent cleaning but fails to post a warning sign, they may be held liable for any injuries that occur as a result.
The duty of care applies to both public property and private properties, including businesses, grocery stores, public parks, and even residential properties. Property owners are expected to keep their premises safe and take reasonable measures to prevent accidents and injuries.
Property Owner Negligence
When it comes to slip and fall accidents, one of the key factors in determining liability is proving that the property owner was negligent. In order to successfully demonstrate negligence, certain elements must be established.
Breach of Duty:
The next step is to demonstrate that the property owner breached their duty of care. This can be done by showing that the owner was aware of the dangerous condition or should have been aware of it through reasonable inspection or maintenance practices. For example, if a property owner fails to promptly clean up a spill or repair a damaged walkway, they may be considered in breach of their duty.
Causation:
It is crucial to establish a causal link between the property owner’s breach of duty and the slip and fall accident. This means showing that the hazardous condition directly led to the accident. It may require gathering evidence such as photographs, witness statements, or surveillance footage to prove this causal connection.
Foreseeability:
One must demonstrate that the property owner should have reasonably foreseen the risk of harm posed by the dangerous condition. This involves proving that the hazard was present for a sufficient period of time, and the owner should have known about it and taken appropriate measures to address it.
Damages:
In order to pursue a slip and fall claim, the injured person must have suffered compensable damages. These can include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and any other losses directly caused by the accident.
Keep in mind that each slip and fall case is unique, and the process of proving negligence may vary based on specific circumstances. It’s important to consult with our legal professionals, who can assess the details of your case and guide you through the legal proceedings to ensure your rights are protected.
Types of Slip and Fall Accidents
- Wet or Slippery Surfaces:
One of the most common types of slip and fall accidents is caused by wet or slippery surfaces. This can include spills on supermarket floors, freshly mopped or waxed floors in commercial buildings, or even rain-soaked surfaces in outdoor areas. - Uneven or Broken Surfaces:
Uneven or broken surfaces can also lead to slip and fall accidents. This can include cracked sidewalks, potholes in parking lots, or uneven flooring in buildings. Property owners have a duty to maintain their premises and ensure that walkways and surfaces are in a safe condition. - Hazardous Obstructions:
Slip and fall accidents can also be caused by hazardous obstructions, such as loose cables, debris, or unsecured rugs. Property owners have a duty to keep their premises free from potential tripping hazards and to promptly remove any obstructions that can cause accidents. - Inadequate Lighting:
Poorly lit areas can also contribute to slip and fall accidents. Insufficient lighting can make it difficult for individuals to see potential hazards, such as steps or uneven surfaces. Property owners have a responsibility to ensure that their premises are well-lit, especially in areas that are frequented by visitors. - Poorly Maintained Stairs and Handrails:
Stairs that are poorly maintained or lack proper handrails can pose a significant risk of slip and fall accidents. Broken or loose handrails, as well as slippery stair surfaces, can cause individuals to lose their balance and fall. Property owners must regularly inspect and maintain stairs and handrails to prevent accidents.
Common Injuries In Slip-And-Fall Accidents
Slip-and-fall accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-altering.
These accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere, and the injuries sustained can vary depending on the circumstances of the fall. Here are some of the most common injuries that occur in slip-and-fall accidents:
- Broken Bones:
One of the most prevalent injuries in slip-and-fall accidents is broken bones. When someone falls, the impact can cause fractures in the arms, legs, wrists, ankles, or hips. These fractures can be extremely painful and often require medical intervention, including surgery and physical therapy, to properly heal. - Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs):
Falls can also lead to traumatic brain injuries, which are caused by a blow or jolt to the head. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms of a TBI can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and changes in mood and behavior. These injuries can have long-lasting effects on an individual's cognitive and physical abilities. - Spinal Cord Injuries:
Slip-and-fall accidents can also result in spinal cord injuries, which can have devastating consequences. These injuries occur when the spinal cord is damaged, affecting the ability to control movement and sensation. Depending on the severity of the injury, individuals may experience partial or complete paralysis. - Neck Injuries:
Falls can cause significant strain on the neck, leading to injuries such as whiplash or herniated discs. These injuries can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the neck, making it challenging to perform daily activities. - Soft Tissue Injuries:
In addition to fractures and neurological injuries, slip-and-fall accidents can cause various soft tissue injuries. These injuries can include sprains, strains, torn ligaments, and muscle tears. While these injuries may not be as severe as others, they can still cause significant pain and discomfort and require medical treatment.
What Steps to Take Following a Fort Lauderdale, Slip and Fall Accident
1. Seek medical attention:
The first and most crucial step is to seek medical attention. Even if you don’t notice any immediate injuries, some injuries may not become apparent until later. By seeking medical attention, your injuries will be documented, and proper treatment can be provided. This documentation will also be important if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
2. Report the accident:
Report the accident to the property owner or manager as soon as possible. Request a copy of the accident report, ensuring it includes the details of your fall, any hazardous conditions present, and any witnesses to the incident. This report acts as an official record of the accident and the dangerous condition that caused it.
3. Document the scene:
Take pictures or videos of the accident scene, focusing on the hazardous condition that caused your fall. This evidence will be valuable to support your personal injury claim. If there were any warning signs or barriers present, document those as well. Collect any information you can, such as witness names and contact information, as they may be needed for your case.
4. Preserve evidence:
Do not alter the scene of the accident or fix any hazardous conditions. Instead, preserve the evidence as it is. This includes keeping the shoes or clothing you were wearing at the time of the fall, as they may have important physical evidence.
5. Contact a slip and fall attorney:
Consult with Goldberg & Loren and we will evaluate your case and guide you through the process. Slip and fall accidents can be complicated, and having legal representation ensures your rights are protected. We will help gather evidence, assess liability, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
6. Notify your insurance company:
Inform your insurance company about the accident and provide all the necessary details. It’s important to understand the coverage you have and any deadlines for filing a claim. However, avoid giving a recorded statement to the insurance company until you have spoken with your attorney.
7. Keep track of expenses:
Document all medical bills, expenses related to your injuries, and any lost wages due to the accident. This information will help determine the compensation you may be entitled to in a personal injury claim.
8. Follow your doctor's instructions:
Adhere to the treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare professionals. Attend follow-up appointments and complete any recommended therapies. Your dedication to your recovery will demonstrate your commitment to your well-being and strengthen your case.
Statute of Limitations on a Slip and Fall Accident in Florida
In Florida, the statute of limitations for a slip and fall accident is generally two years. This means that a person who has been injured in a slip and fall accident has up to two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.
It’s important to note that there are certain exceptions and variations to the statute of limitations depending on the circumstances of the case. These exceptions may include cases involving government-owned property where shorter notice deadlines may apply.
It is always advisable to consult with a slip-and-fall attorney at Goldberg & Loren as soon as possible to determine the specific statute of limitations that applies to your case and to ensure that you do not exceed the time limit for filing a lawsuit.
Failing to file within the specified time frame could result in your case being dismissed and the loss of your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
Have You Recently Been Injured in a Slip-And-Fall Accident in Fort Lauderdale?
Goldberg & Loren are the slip-and-fall attorneys you need on your side. With years of experience and a proven track record of success, they have the knowledge and expertise to fight for your rights and fair compensation.
If you want to hold those responsible for your slip and fall accountable and receive the financial support you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, Goldberg & Loren are the attorneys who will fight tirelessly for you.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step towards getting the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t wait; your time to act is limited.
Source
[1] Slip and Fall Quick Facts | NFSI. (n.d.). Slip and Fall Quick Facts | NFSI. https://nfsi.org/nfsi-research/quick-facts/
If you were injured in a slip and fall accident in Fort Lauderdale we want to hear your story, You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
