Florida, home of the world-famous Walt Disney World and the Kennedy Space Center. The southeastern state, with a population of over 21 million, has plenty of things to see and do. Florida has its fair share of visitors as well.
With the increase in visitors come accidents in business establishments and private property. The attentiveness of the individuals aside, landlords and business owners must ensure that their property is free of any element that might hurt someone.
If you suffered an injury on someone else’s property, taking legal action is necessary. Reach out to one of the numerous premises liability attorneys in Florida to find out how you can seek compensation for the losses and injuries you’ve suffered.
This article lists some of the common scenarios where the property owner can be held liable.
Scenario 1: Slipping or Tripping and Falling
The basic concept of premises liability is maintaining a safe environment for everyone who’s legally allowed on the property. This means that they have the responsibility to clean up spills or remove hazards from which individuals may slip or trip and fall. A failure to fulfill this responsibility leads to a premises liability claim.
Some examples of this scenario include slipping off an uncleaned mess or tripping on exposed wires from the ground.
Scenario 2: Poor Security
A property owner is supposed to ensure the safety of the property. This includes taking necessary measures like installing CCTV cameras and hiring security personnel.
The need for security is particularly high if the property is situated in cities with high crime rates, like
- Daytona Beach
- Lauderhill
- Homestead
- Riviera Beach
- Orland
- Deerfield Beach
- Pompano Beach
If you’re the victim of a crime that happened on another person’s property, you can sue the property owner for damages.
Scenario 3: You Were Bitten by a Dog
Property owners resort to a range of methods to keep their property safe. One such method is a dog.
Now it’s a completely different situation if you were trespassing on the property.
But if you were present on the property legally and a dog bit you, you have a case in your hands.
Florida is a strict liability state. This means that if you’re bitten by a dog, the owner will have to pay for all the losses and injuries you’ve sustained.
Scenario 4: Elevator and Escalator Injuries
Elevators and escalators are modern conveniences. They help people reach higher or lower levels easily with minimal effort.
But since these conveniences are mechanical, they tend to fail from time to time. And when they do, they can cause injuries. Elevator accidents can be fatal.
If you find yourself in an accident like this, you can sue the building owner. Additionally, the elevator or escalator maintenance and repair company and their manufacturer or seller can be held liable as well.
Scenario 5: Amusement Park Accidents
Amusement parks are places where all safety precautions must be in place. This is because parents visit them with children of all ages.
An accident in an amusement park, especially on one of the rides, can be disastrous. It can lead to the loss of life as well.
The park owner is responsible for all injuries and losses suffered due to an accident in an amusement park. But keep in mind that Florida is a comparative negligence state. If the victim is found to have played a role in the accident (50% or more), they cannot recover any damages.
Conclusion
A premises liability claim arises when the property owner fails to take the safety of visitors seriously. This lack of seriousness often leads to injuries and losses like missed wages, physical pain, and emotional distress.
Victims of such incidents must fight back. They must contact a lawyer to ensure that their rights are upheld. An expert premises liability lawyer will ensure victims get justice for all the difficulties they have endured.