What Victims of Slip and Fall Accidents in Florida Need to Know
If you or a loved one suffered a slip and fall accident in Florida, turn to the Stuart, Florida personal injury law firm, Lance P. Richard, P.A., to help you understand the essential aspects of premises liability, including potential compensation, your rights to sue, the typical duration of slip and fall cases, and the statute of limitations in Florida.
Who is Responsible for Slip and Fall Accidents in Florida?
Under Florida’s premises liability laws, property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. They can be held liable if their negligence leads to a slip and fall accident, causing injury.
However, proving negligence in a premises liability case can be challenging. You must demonstrate that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to rectify it. Involving a knowledgeable lawyer can help build a winning case and pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit for a Slip and Fall in Florida
Florida’s statute of limitations for a slip and fall case is four years from the accident date. A statute of limitations is a law that sets the maximum period for legal proceedings to be initiated after an event has occurred. You have four years to file a lawsuit against the property owner. Failing to file within this period typically means you lose your right to pursue legal action, regardless of the merits of your case.
However, exceptions can apply to this rule. For instance, if the victim is a minor or if the injury was not discovered right away, the timeline might be extended. To understand how the statute of limitations applies to your case, it is important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney immediately.
Average Payout for Slip and Fall Cases in Florida
The compensation you might receive following a slip and fall accident can vary widely based on the specifics of your case. Factors influencing the payout include the severity of your injuries, the degree of fault, medical expenses, lost income, and the impact on your life. On average, slip and fall settlements can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, but every case is unique. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult an experienced personal injury attorney for a better estimation based on the circumstance of your case.
Duration of a Slip and Fall Case in Florida
The time it takes to settle a slip and fall case can depend on many variables. These can include the complexity of the case, the willingness of parties to negotiate, and the court schedule. On average, it could take several months to a few years from injury until a settlement is reached or a verdict is issued. Patience can be vital in these cases as rushing may result in a lower settlement.
Get the Right Legal Help
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident in Florida, you don’t have to navigate the complex world of premises liability law alone. Lance P. Richard, P.A. is here to support you. With over 25 years of experience, including handling some of Florida’s most intricate cases, Attorney Richard is well-equipped to guide you toward achieving the justice you deserve.
Sources:
forbes.com/advisor/legal/personal-injury/slip-and-fall-lawsuit/
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.0755.html