Most of the time when you hear about someone slipping and falling outside, it’s due to weather, and the vast majority of those accidents are a result of weather Floridians don’t really see – snow and ice.
So, why exactly do people in Florida slip and fall outdoors?
Regardless of our warm weather, there are all kinds of conditions that can lead to Floridians falling while outside. Below, we’re going to detail some of the most the common causes of outdoor slip and fall accidents, as well as what you can do to seek compensation if you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence.
Cluttered areas
If you are walking in an area cluttered by items or debris, you have an increased risk of slipping and falling. Entities and businesses have a duty to provide a clear walking space for you – inside and out. If you are injured due to a cluttered outdoor area, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit.
Uneven or unstable surfaces
An uneven sidewalk, parking lot, or floor can pose a risk of injury to you. If it is not repaired or cordoned off in a reasonable manner and you experience injury, you may be able to seek compensation from the liable party.
Lack of regular inspection
Not every business or entity inspects and repairs faulty surfaces as often as they should. Check with a personal injury attorney if you suspect that your injury occurred because the liable party did not inspect or make repairs on a regular basis.
Areas with heavy foot traffic
Stadiums and other outdoor venues should have a plan in place to prevent injuries in high traffic areas. Make sure to contact an attorney if you feel that your injury resulted from negligence in a high traffic publicly- or privately-owned area.
Unsecured heights
Any precipice, landing or high area that is not secured with a fence presents a high risk of injury. If you experienced a slip and fall due to an unsecured height, check with an attorney to determine who can be held liable.
Ladders
The improper use of ladders is a common cause of falling injuries. If your employer did not properly secure a ladder before you used it and you experienced an injury, you may be able to file a claim.
Ramps
Exterior ramps must be clean and free from debris to prevent injuries.
Stairwells
Stairs with wet areas, damaged flooring or clutter are hazardous. If a stairwell lacks a handrail, it can pose additional risks. Stairwells must be well-lit and clean to prevent slip and fall injuries.
Wet or slippery areas
If a spill or newly mopped or waxed floor outside is not marked off, it can present a slip and fall risk. This is where Florida weather comes into play as well. We may not have snow and ice, but one thing we do have is rainstorms. Lots of rainstorms. Sudden rainstorms.
When businesses do not do their part to keep their outside areas well drained, puddles can make things more precarious and lead to injury.
What Floridians Can Do If Another’s Negligence Caused Your Slip and Fall Injury
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident due to someone else’s negligence, a skilled Florida personal injury attorney can help you receive compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering associated with your injury.
An experienced lawyer can help you file a claim for an outdoor slip and fall injury no matter where it occurred, including any of the following places:
- Retail store
- Resort
- Hotel
- Small business
- Public space
- Workplace
- Rental dwelling
- Private home
Depending on the liable party or parties, a personal injury case can be quite complicated and difficult to win on your own, and outdoor falls often come with their own unique wrinkles.
About the Author:
A partner at Ben Murphey tries complex disputes that include civdentil appeals, maritime and admiralty claims, wrongful death, and labor disputes. Mr. Murphey has been recognized for his excellence in the area of personal injury litigation by being rewarded with a 10/10 Avvo Rating and named a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” for the last four consecutive years (2011-2014). Mr. Murphey regularly tries cases in state and federal courts around the country, being admitted to practice before all Florida courts and the United States Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit.