Slip-and-fall accidents are among the leading causes of personal injury claims in St. Petersburg, Florida. Although often associated with public spaces, they also commonly happen within residential spaces causing complex legal questions around liability and compensation issues.
Understanding your rights after experiencing such an event in a private residence is critical if recovering damages is to happen successfully.
Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents in Homes
Slip and fall accidents in residential settings can occur as the result of various hazards, including:
- Wet floors
- Loose rugs
- Uneven flooring
- Poor lighting
Homeowners have the responsibility of creating an environment in which their guests can safely enjoy themselves; should failure on their part to clean up spills or fix hazardous conditions lead to injuries then they could potentially be held liable.
Under Florida law, to prove negligence in a personal injury claim in St. Petersburg requires proof that there was an unsafe condition present, with evidence to show whether or not the homeowner knew or should have known about this danger. To successfully assert their case in St. Petersburg they will need to show:
- An unsafe condition existed
- They know or should have known about
Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident
When experiencing a slip and fall at your St. Petersburg residence, follow these steps for recovery:
- Sought Medical Attention: Your health comes first – document any injuries to create medical records as part of the official record keeping of medical providers in St. Petersburg.
- Report the Incident: Inform the homeowner as soon as possible of your fall, and request that he/she create an incident report in writing if possible.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of any hazards that caused you to trip and obtain contact info from witnesses who might have witnessed what occurred.
- Consult an Attorney: Consulting an experienced personal injury attorney can be invaluable when handling legal processes related to an injury case. They will assess and assist your claim along the way.
Bottom Line!
Slip and fall accidents in private residences are devastating events, often leaving victims physically, emotionally, and financially compromised. When this occurs in St. Petersburg residences, understanding your rights quickly can make all the difference for their case; consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney ensures your claim will be dealt with efficiently so you can focus on recovery without distraction.
This post was written by Kelly-Ann Jenkins of Jenkins Law P.L. Kelly-Ann is an insurance claim Lawyer. The information on this site is not intended to and does not offer legal advice, legal recommendations, or legal representation on any matter. Hiring an attorney is an important decision, which should not be based on advertising. You need to consult an attorney for legal advice regarding your situation.
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