Injured in a Fall? How To Protect Yourself And Your Rights After Pinellas County Slip and Fall Accidents
A slip and fall accident in Pinellas County can happen when you least expect it, such as while shopping at local grocery stores, visiting resorts or restaurants in the area, staying at hotels, or even visiting doctor’s offices. While most people are likely to downplay the situation, these accidents often cause painful injuries that impact your health and mobility for long afterward while leaving you facing costly medical bills and time away from your job.
If you get hurt in a fall, it’s important to understand your legal rights. Our Pinellas County slip fall attorney explains how these accidents happen and what to do when injuries occur due to unsafe property conditions.
How Pinellas County Slip and Fall Accidents Often Happen
The Florida Department of Health warns that falls are a leading cause of hospital visits throughout the state. They are often caused by dangerous conditions on someone else’s property.
Under the Florida Statutes, property owners must maintain the safety of the premises. When they fail to do so, they can be held legally liable for any resulting injuries. Common hazards that make slips and falls in Pinellas County more likely to occur include:
- Wet or freshly mopped floors without warning signs;
- Spilled food or liquids in grocery stores or restaurants;
- Uneven sidewalks, loose floorboards, or torn carpeting;
- Poor lighting in stairwells or walkways;
- Lack of handrails on steps or staircases;
- Clutter or obstacles in public areas.
While it is common to feel embarrassed at first, know that even seemingly minor falls can cause serious harm. Broken bones, muscle tears, dislocated joints, and severe head, back, or neck injuries can result. When property owner negligence is to blame, you have the right to hold them accountable.
Protect Yourself And Your Legal Rights After a Slip and Fall in Pinellas County
If you get injured in a slip and fall in Seminole, you may be entitled to compensation either through the property owner’s insurer or by filing a premises liability claim through the Pinellas County Court. Taking the following steps immediately after the incident helps to protect your health and your rights in a claim:
- Notify the property owner, manager, or security right away and ask them to create a written incident report.
- Document the scene via photos or videos.
- If anyone saw your fall, collect their name and contact details.
- Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor. Medical records help support your claim.
- Avoid posting on social media, which insurers use to challenge your injuries or credibility.
Get Professional Legal Help From Our Experienced Pinellas County Slip and Fall Attorney
Slip and fall accidents in Pinellas County can turn your life upside down. At the Reep Law Firm, we can help gather evidence, identify who is at fault, and provide the experienced legal representation you need in negotiating with insurers or taking your case to court. For professional legal help, contact our office. Request a consultation with our Pinellas County slip and fall attorney today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.0755.html
floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/prevention/older-adult-falls-prevention/resources.html
