Slip and Fall Lawyers in Tampa
Data from the CDC shows that 20% of fall victims suffer serious injuries, such as broken bones or head trauma. Therefore, it’s best to seek immediate medical treatment if you slip, trip, or fall.
You may also need to file a liability claim against the property’s owner because of the dangerous conditions that led to your fall. Burnett Law, P.A. has expert slip and fall lawyers in Tampa that can assist you with your claim or case.
Here’s what you need to know about our Tampa slip and fall attorneys.
What’s Considered a Slip and Fall Accident?
Florida law uses the term “slip and fall” in personal injury cases where one slipped or tripped on another person’s property. Some examples of where the accident can occur include:
- Parking lots
- Public streets, sidewalks, or walkways
- Private property (someone’s home)
- Stores or other businesses
What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident
Here are nine things accident victims should do after a slip and fall incident to file a personal injury claim.
Seek Medical Help
Fall injuries can cause severe pain, complications, and even death. Always seek medical attention by going to the emergency room. Follow all advice from the doctor.
Get documentation and keep a detailed record of the following:
- Correspondence with the doctor
- Injuries
- Medical care received
- Medical expenses
Photographing your injuries and treatments, like casts or bandages, is also wise.
You may need ongoing medical care. For instance, you might not know that you have a traumatic brain injury, and your symptoms might appear days or weeks later. So having accurate records of your symptoms is vital.
Report the Accident to the Property Owners or Manager
Ask to file a formal report with the business and request a copy. If the company doesn’t have a reporting system, send a description of the accident and your injuries to their address or email as soon as possible. Make sure to keep a copy of your documents.
Determine What Caused Your Accident
If you know the cause of your accident, it’s easier to prove your case. For instance, did you trip over items blocking the aisle in the grocery store or fall on the slippery, wet floor? Perhaps you tripped over a large pothole on the sidewalk.
Gather Witness Information
If anyone saw the incident, collect their contact information. You may also ask to record a statement or testimonial from witnesses on your phone to document their account of the accident while it’s still fresh in their memory.
Document Everything
Aside from your medical documents, note the site of the accident. Take photos of the scene and the cause of your accident. Make sure to capture the area from multiple angles.
Take Detailed Notes
Write down your account of the fall as soon as you can. Jot down the date, time, and weather. Recall as many details as possible, such as:
- If you noticed the cause of the accident beforehand
- The body part that hit the ground
- The shoes you wore
- Where you stepped
- Where you were looking
The more documentation and information you have for your injury claim, the better.
Don’t Talk About It on Social Media
Never discuss a case pending legal action on social media. Additionally, don’t blame or make negative remarks about anyone involved in the case. Let your Burnett Law, P.A. attorney handle the details and any communications – your comments can be misconstrued and used against you.
Be Wary of Insurance Company Representatives
An insurance adjuster may reach out to you after your accident. They want to pay you as little as possible for your pain, so never accept blame or minimize your injuries to them.
Further, don’t sign a release allowing them to view your medical records without the advice of your Tampa slip and fall accident lawyer.
Call Burnett Law
You want to seek legal representation from a slip and fall accident lawyer with expert knowledge of personal injury law as soon as possible. Since the statute of limitations for these accidents is four years, it’s best to act fast.
At Burnett Law, we offer a free case evaluation so you can understand how we’ll best handle your case.
When Are Florida Property Owners Liable for a Slip and Fall Accident?
Property owners must provide a duty of care. This means they take reasonable care in the ownership and maintenance of a property. The property must:
- Be free of hazardous conditions
- Follow ordinances and safety codes
- Offer accessibility for those with disabilities
If the property is not in a safe condition, accident victims can argue the property owner’s liability in a premises liability case in court.
Calculating Damages for a Slip and Fall Accident
You have the right to recover the following economic and non-economic damages after an accident:
- Lost income or wages
- Mental anguish (pain and suffering)
- Medical bills
- Out-of-pocket expenses like hiring an in-home caregiver or someone to perform household tasks while you recover
A personal injury attorney can help you calculate the total monetary damages you deserve.
Collecting Compensation
Your Tampa personal injury lawyer will be able to collect the compensation you receive from the insurance company or business owner directly.
Accident attorneys are experts at working with the court to obtain your compensation and distribute it promptly.
FAQs About Slip and Fall Accidents
Below are the answers to the most commonly asked questions from our experienced Tampa slip and fall lawyers.
What Is the Average Payout for a Slip And Fall Accident in Florida?
An injured person receives an average of $45,000 to $850,000 from a slip and fall accident.
Disclaimer: the amount you receive will drastically depend on the details surrounding your fall and the extent of your injuries.
How Do You Win a Slip and Fall Case in Florida?
To win your slip and fall claim, you’ll need to work with a Tampa slip and fall lawyer to provide evidence of a negligent property owner, fault, and premises liability.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Slip and Fall Case in Florida?
It can take a few months up to a few years to receive your settlement. However, when you work with a personal injury lawyer, you will likely receive compensation without going to trial, which can expedite the process.
Request a Free Consultation With a Slip and Fall Lawyer in Tampa
To get the maximum settlement you deserve, seek legal advice from a reputable law firm. Request a free consultation today from the best slip and fall lawyer in the Tampa area at Burnett Law, P.A.. We are dedicated to standing up and fighting for your best interests.