Fort Lauderdale Florida Accident Lawyers: How USAttorneys.com Can Help with Your Accident Case
Businesses expect to consistently have customers coming and going, which is why the law imposes certain duties on them to ensure that people are not injured while conducting normal, foreseeable activities on their premises. As a general rule, a business is going to be held responsible for most injuries that occur on their property, aside from clear cases of trespassing or criminal activity. This is where premises liability comes into play.
Understanding Premises Liability
Premises liability is the legal concept that holds business owners accountable for any foreseeable injuries that occur during normal use of their property. This concept may sound straightforward, but real lawsuits over the years have demonstrated how complex liability issues can be.
An essential aspect of premises liability is that an owner needs to keep areas free from hazards for all anticipated activities. In most situations, all entrances and areas where people move around and walk should be kept clear of debris, liquids, dangerous objects, or anything else that could cause injuries. For instance, a restaurant should maintain a safe, clean dining area and minimize risks of injury or illness that result from people entering, exiting, and consuming food, as these are the types of activities that customers are expected to engage in.
Notable Premises Liability Case in Florida
One interesting case involved a woman who fell off a donkey statue at a Mexican restaurant and sustained severe injuries. The victim alleged that she was climbing the statue to have her picture taken, which the restaurant proprietors openly encouraged, when she fell and suffered a spine fracture along with other medical problems that required extensive treatment. The lawsuit sought approximately $15,000 for the medical costs related to the accident and alleged that the restaurant was negligent for failing to identify the statue as a hazard or provide any warnings to guests.
A primary issue in such a lawsuit would be whether the owners knew that people routinely interacted with the statue, yet made no efforts to ensure the area was safe or restrict access to it if hazards existed. Although the facts of this incident seem strange, the restaurant would likely be found to have a duty of care to the plaintiff as long as they knew about guests interacting with the donkey and encouraged people to take pictures while climbing onto the statue. This would likely be sufficient evidence for them to have a responsibility to ensure the area around the statue is safe for guests or at least provide warnings related to any potential risks because injuries are foreseeable.
Protecting Your Business from Premises Liability
As a business owner, it is crucial to take legal precautions to avoid potential premises liability lawsuits. Lawsuits can emerge from seemingly absurd circumstances, but the possibility of losing thousands of dollars can be devastating for an unprepared business. Consulting with a lawyer who specializes in premises liability and related issues can help provide a clear defense if a lawsuit arises. Some minor legal precautions today may save thousands or even millions of dollars in the future.
What Should You Do if You’re Injured on Business Property?
If you were injured on business property in Fort Lauderdale, you might be entitled to compensation. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Ensure you get the necessary medical treatment.
- Report the Incident: Notify the business management about the incident and ensure it is documented.
- Gather Evidence: Take photographs of the accident scene, gather witness statements, and collect any other relevant information.
- Consult an Accident Lawyer: Contact a skilled accident lawyer to discuss your case and understand your legal rights.
Talk to a Lawyer About Your Case Today
If you were injured in an accident in Fort Lauderdale or surrounding areas, you can speak with an expert lawyer today. Gabriela C. Novo, a former prosecutor with extensive experience handling various legal matters in South Florida, is available for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your injuries and the possibility of filing a lawsuit.
Contact Gabriela C. Novo for expert legal assistance:
Gabriela C. Novo, P.A.
Address: 200 S.E. 6th Street, Suite 102, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Phone: 954-822-5198
Website: www.novoatlaw.com
Don’t navigate the aftermath of a premises liability accident alone. Reach out to Gabriela C. Novo today to get the legal support you need.
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