Fall Safety: How To Protect Yourself Against Slip And Fall Accidents In Miami
Fall weather provides welcome relief after a swelteringly hot summer, and residents are more likely to be out and about, visiting local markets, restaurants, and other public places. During these outings, be aware of how damp fall conditions and the decrease in daylight hours increase the likelihood of slip and fall accidents. Our Miami slip and fall lawyers explain ways to reduce your risks and how to protect yourself if an accident happens.
Miami Slip And Fall Accident Risks
According to the Florida Department of Public Health, close to 50,000 people seek treatment in local hospitals each year due to fall accidents in Miami-Dade County. Sadly, these accidents claim the lives of nearly 150 victims. It is important to be aware of the risks.
Slip and fall accidents in Miami can happen while visiting people in their homes and when going to local stores, restaurants, office buildings, or other public places. Fall is one of the most common times of year for them to happen. Conditions that make them more likely to happen include:
- Cool damp weather, causing moisture and condensation to accumulate on floors;
- Falling leaves and tree branches, making surfaces slippery and increasing trip hazards;
- Decreased daylight hours, reducing visibility and making fall accidents more likely to occur;
- Increase in clutter and other obstacles, due to holiday decorations.
Wet floors, damaged carpeting or flooring tiles, lack of proper lighting or landscaping in outdoor areas, and cluttered aisles are all common causes of slip-fall accidents in Miami. If you are a victim, be aware that the property owner can be held liable.
Drowsy Driving A Problem During Time Changes
Wearing the appropriate shoes, watching your step, and using your phone flashlight, if needed, can all help to reduce slip and fall accident risks in Miami. However, in most cases, negligence on the part of the property owner is ultimately to blame. Under the Florida Statutes, they can be held liable for your costs.
You may be entitled to compensation for slip and fall injuries in Miami either through the property owner’s insurer or by filing a personal injury lawsuit against them through the Miami-Dade County Court. To protect your rights in a claim, take these steps if you are involved in any type of slip and fall accident:
- Notify the police, on-site security, or the property owner immediately;
- Make sure an incident report is filed and details what happened;
- Get the names of any witnesses at the scene and take photos, if possible;
- Seek immediate medical care, regardless of your symptoms, and follow all of your doctor’s instructions.
Contact Our Miami Slip-Fall Lawyers And Request A Consultation
Personal injuries caused by slip and fall accidents in Miami can leave you facing hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills, lost wages, and other costs. To protect your rights in filing a claim, call 305-670-2889 or contact Pita Weber & Del Prado online. Request a consultation with our Miami slip-fall lawyer to discuss your options today.
