Slip, trip, and fall accidents can happen anywhere — a grocery store, sidewalk, parking lot, or even an apartment complex. While some falls result in nothing more than a bruised ego, others can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, concussions, or long-term mobility issues.
When these injuries occur because a property owner failed to maintain a safe environment, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim under Florida law. At Merricks Law Group, our experienced Florida slip and fall lawyers help victims across Tampa and beyond pursue the justice and compensation they deserve.
Understanding Premises Liability in Florida
Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners responsible for maintaining reasonably safe conditions for visitors. In Florida, property owners, whether private individuals, businesses, or municipalities, have a duty to inspect and repair hazards or at least warn people about them.
If they neglect this duty and someone gets hurt, they can be held legally accountable. Slip and fall claims often arise from conditions such as:
- Uneven or cracked sidewalks
- Wet or slippery floors in stores or restaurants
- Poorly lit stairways or parking lots
- Loose carpeting or floor mats
- Cluttered walkways or debris
Common Places Where Slip and Fall Accidents Happen
Slip and fall accidents can occur almost anywhere, but some locations pose a higher risk than others:
- Parking lots and garages: Oil slicks, potholes, or lack of proper lighting can all create hazards.
- Restaurants and supermarkets: Spills and cluttered aisles are common causes of accidents.
- Sidewalks and walkways: Cracked pavement, roots, or uneven surfaces are frequent culprits.
- Stairwells: Missing handrails, broken steps, or poor lighting increase the danger.
No matter where your accident happened, the key is proving that negligence, not just bad luck, caused your injury.
Proving Liability After a Slip and Fall Accident
To win a premises liability claim in Florida, your attorney must establish:
- The property owner had a duty to maintain safe conditions.
- The owner knew or should have known about a hazard.
- They failed to take reasonable steps to fix or warn about it.
- You suffered an injury and measurable damages as a result.
The Merricks Law Group team works quickly to gather the evidence needed to prove your claim, such as:
- Surveillance video or photographs of the scene
- Witness statements
- Medical records
- Maintenance logs or incident reports
The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will likely be — evidence fades quickly after an accident.
Recoverable Damages in Slip and Fall Cases
Victims of slip and fall accidents may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Economic damages, such as medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost income
- Non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life
Our firm is dedicated to pursuing the full compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery rather than the financial burden of your injury.
Contact a Trusted Florida Slip and Fall Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a slip, trip, or fall accident on someone else’s property, don’t wait to get the help you need. The attorneys at Merricks Law Group have over 150 years of combined experience representing accident victims throughout Tampa and across Florida.
We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and fight tirelessly for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slip and Fall Claims in Florida
- How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in Florida?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a premises liability claim. However, starting sooner gives your attorney the best chance to collect strong evidence before it disappears. - What should I do immediately after a slip and fall accident?
If you can, report the incident to the property owner or manager, take photos of the scene, gather witness contact information, and seek medical attention right away. Then, contact a Tampa slip and fall lawyer to discuss your legal options. - Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Your recovery amount will simply be reduced by your percentage of fault. - How much is my slip and fall case worth?
Every case is unique. Factors like the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and long-term impacts all influence your settlement or verdict. Our attorneys can help evaluate your case and provide realistic expectations.