If you’ve been injured in a fall and are considering legal action, you’ve probably heard the word “negligence” thrown around. But what does it mean, and how do you prove it? This is where a skilled slip and fall attorney in Florida can make a huge difference.
To win a slip-and-fall case, it’s not enough to show that you got hurt. You have to prove that the property owner was negligent—and that their negligence caused your injury. Sounds straightforward, right? Unfortunately, it’s rarely that simple.
Here’s what the law in Florida requires. First, the property owner must have had a legal duty to keep the premises safe. If you were a customer at a store, that duty is there. But if you were trespassing, it may not apply the same way.
Second, there has to be a dangerous condition, like a wet floor, broken tile, poor lighting, or a loose handrail. And you need to show that the owner knew or should have known about it. This is called “actual or constructive notice.”
For example, if a customer spills a drink and someone slips on it 30 seconds later, it may be hard to prove the store had time to react. But if that puddle sat for 20 minutes and no one cleaned it up, it’s easier to argue that they were negligent.
Third, there must be a direct link between the negligence and your injury. That means you have to show that the dangerous condition directly caused you to fall and get hurt, not some other factor like clumsiness or a medical issue.
A good slip and fall attorney in Florida will gather evidence fast: surveillance footage, witness statements, maintenance logs, and more. These details can make or break your case. Time is critical—businesses often erase security footage within days.
Attorney Kevin Sullivan understands what courts and insurance companies look for in a slip and fall claim. If you’ve been injured and you’re not sure what your next steps should be, give him a call at (813) 598-4868. He’ll help you figure out if negligence was involved—and what you can do about it.
When you’re hurt and unsure who’s responsible, having the right attorney can give you clarity and confidence.
This post was written by a professional at Kevin L. Sullivan II. Attorney Kevin L. Sullivan II is your Dade City trucking accident attorney and the best personal injury attorney near you for LeavenLaw. Kevin is proud to serve Florida accident victims that have been injured in auto accidents, motorcycle accident, slip and falls or have suffered any other type of injury caused by negligence. Kevin offers a FREE no-obligation consultation to discuss your claim. There are NO upfront fees or costs and if he does not collect for you, you do not owe him anything.