Fort Lauderdale Slip, Trip & Fall Injury Attorney
A sudden slip, trip, or fall can disrupt your life in an instant. Whether you were walking down Las Olas Boulevard, visiting a local resort near Fort Lauderdale Beach, or shopping in Broward County, property owners have a legal obligation to maintain safe premises. If they fail to do so, Jeffrey S. Altman and the team at The Altman Law Firm are here to help you navigate the recovery process and understand your legal options.
Understanding Premises Liability in Fort Lauderdale
Under Florida law, property owners, managers, and business operators owe a duty of care to visitors. Whether you are an invitee at a local supermarket or a licensee visiting private property, owners must keep their premises reasonably safe and warn of any hidden dangers. In Fort Lauderdale's bustling commercial districts, from busy restaurants along the Riverwalk to retail spaces, wet floors, uneven steps, and poor lighting frequently lead to serious injuries. Establishing that a property owner knew or should have known about a hazardous condition is a critical component of a successful premises liability claim.
How Florida's Modified Comparative Negligence Law Affects Your Case
Florida recently updated its negligence laws, shifting to a modified comparative negligence system. Under this standard, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault for your slip and fall accident, you are barred from recovering any damages. If you are 50% or less at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of responsibility. This makes the collection of evidence—such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and photos of the scene—incredibly vital. The Altman Law Firm works diligently to build a comprehensive case that accurately represents the facts and protects your rights under these stringent state laws.
Important Deadlines for Broward County Injury Claims
Timing is critical when pursuing a personal injury claim in Florida. Recent legislative changes have shortened the statute of limitations for negligence claims, including slip, trip, and fall accidents, from four years to two years from the date of the incident. Failing to file a lawsuit within this strict timeframe can result in losing your right to seek compensation entirely. Beginning an investigation promptly allows us to secure perishable evidence, such as security camera recordings from Fort Lauderdale businesses, before they are overwritten or destroyed.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do immediately after a slip and fall in Fort Lauderdale?
First, seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Report the incident to the property owner or manager and request a written copy of the incident report. Take photos of the hazard that caused your fall, collect contact information from any witnesses, and avoid making statements that accept blame. Finally, consult with a qualified attorney to review your legal options.
Can I still seek compensation if there was a "Wet Floor" sign?
While a warning sign can impact a case, it does not automatically absolve a property owner of all liability. Factors such as the placement of the sign, the duration the hazard was present, and whether the warning was clearly visible are all taken into consideration under Florida's comparative negligence framework.
Where will my Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawsuit be filed?
If a lawsuit becomes necessary, it is typically filed in the state courts of Broward County, such as the Broward County Courthouse located in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The specific venue depends on the location of the accident and the jurisdictional limits of the court.
Does The Altman Law Firm handle cases on a contingency basis?
Yes, we represent injured clients on a contingency fee basis. This means our legal fees are structured as a percentage of the recovery we secure for you. You do not owe attorney fees unless we successfully obtain compensation on your behalf through a settlement or verdict.
What types of damages can I recover in a premises liability claim?
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may seek compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, and physical pain and suffering. Each case is unique, and we evaluate the specific details of your situation to determine the appropriate path forward.
Contact Jeffrey S. Altman at The Altman Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation regarding your Fort Lauderdale slip and fall case. Call (305) 373-3730.