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Property Owners Responsibilities: Common Causes for Slip and Fall Accidents

by | Last updated May 9, 2023

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere and to anyone. Whether it occurs at a place of business, a residence, or even at a public venue, slip and falls are inconveniences that can sometimes lead to significant hardships – particularly for young children or the elderly.

While many personal injury victims may believe the incident is caused by personal negligence, often the property owner can be at fault.

An experienced slip and fall attorney can help you pursue financial recovery for your injuries and hold negligible property owners accountable.

If you or your loved one has been injured in a Florida slip and fall accident, contact our award-winning attorneys at the Shiner Law Group to discuss the details of your case, as you may be entitled to financial compensation.

Property Owners Responsibilities Common Causes for Slip and Fall Accidents

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

In a personal injury legal proceeding, the claimant, under Florida law, is considered an invitee, licensee, or trespasser depending on the status of their relationship to the property owner.

Property owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees and licensees; however, in certain cases, property owners can be held liable for a trespasser’s injuries, despite the trespasser having no legal right to be on the premises.

Liability in a slip and fall claim is based on negligence: a Florida property owner is required to maintain their premises in a safe and reasonable manner.

Invitee is a person who is either on the property for public use or for business.

Licensee, invited or uninvited, is a person who is on the property as a guest or whose presence is warranted based on occupation, such as a postal worker.

As Florida property owners are required to inspect and maintain the property in a manner that ensures hazards do not exist, or that public notice is provided in the presence of a hazard.

Slip and fall victims can hold negligible property owners liable for a broad range of injuries, including, but not limited to, pain and suffering, medical expenses, and other economic and non-economic losses.

The personal injury attorneys at the Shiner Law Group identify several examples of property owner negligence commonly associated with slip and fall accident claims:

  • Unsafe surface conditions, such as uneven flooring, water accumulation, uneven steps, potholes, exposed wiring/cabling, rugs, and other foreign objects.
  • Clutter or debris.
  • Poor lighting.
  • Floor transitions (i.e. carpet to wood).
  • Unsafe ladders, stairs, or railings.
  • Occupational property negligence, including construction, housekeeping, or cooking.

Steps to Prevent Slip and Fall Accidents

While slip and fall accidents may occur for any number of reasons, there are steps property owners can take to reduce the risk of personal injury and financial liability:

Water Accumulation: Property owners can ensure that guests do not sustain a physical injury by removing water buildup or ice and snow. Warning signs may be used to alert property guests of the presence of hazardous conditions.

Provide Adequate Lighting: Installing lights that provide proper illumination can reduce the risk of environmental factors, such as clutter, debris, and exposes cable, from causing personal injury.

Removing Clutter: Property owners can mitigate the risk of financial liability by removing clutter, debris, and other obstacles that obstruct passageways. Cords that run across open areas should be covered with tape to alert passersby of their presence. Drawers and cabinet doors should also be kept closed.

Common injuries from a slip and fall include:

  • Injuries to the back of the head
  • Spine injuries
  • Knee injuries
  • Hip injuries
  • Arm and wrist injuries
  • Trip And Fall

Speak with a Shiner Law Group Slip and Fall Attorney

Have you or someone you love been injured because of the negligent, reckless, or intentional conduct of another? Call us at (561) 777-7700 or contact us online for a free case review.

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