Can Weather Conditions Impact My Florida Slip-and-Fall Case?

Imagine notifying your landlord about unsafe stairs or other surfaces inside the property. If they fail to address it and you end up hurt because of their negligence, you may be able to take legal action against them. But what about a slip and fall in bad weather?

Florida’s unique climate can present weather hazard premises liability concerns. Learn how certain weather conditions can make surfaces unsafe and how to begin approaching these situations from a legal perspective. 

Common Weather Patterns and Climate Concerns That Make for Potentially Hazardous Outdoor Surfaces

Floridians may be able to pursue legal action if they slip and injure themselves on someone else’s property. All property owners are responsible for maintaining safe outdoor surfaces for neighbors and guests. They could be liable in a slip-and-fall case if they don’t take the proper measures to prevent injuries. 

Inclement weather can exacerbate the hazards on a property. Locals have to be aware of slipping hazards due to the following:

• Rainfall: If a lawsuit names a rain-soaked surface injury, attorneys may check if the property owner used signs or verbally warned others about the slippery, wet area. 
• Mold: Florida’s humid air promotes mold growth on outdoor surfaces. The fungi can make decks, patios, and other walkways difficult to navigate safely. 
• Hurricanes: When hurricane-force winds scatter debris across properties, there’s a risk that someone may trip over it. 
• Sand: In coastal regions, sand that blows from the beach to smooth walkways can make them slippery. 

A slip-and-fall in bad weather is a concern that every Florida property owner should prepare for. While residents of the Sunshine State typically deal with the conditions mentioned above, it’s not out of the realm of possibility to face a snow-related slip-and-fall. If wintry conditions hit the region, you may need to consult a black ice accident attorney. 

Lawyers who handle slip-and-fall claims can gather evidence supporting an icy sidewalk injury claim or even a case of negligent snow removal.

Exploring Weather’s Impact on Premises Liability Cases

Property owners can’t control Mother Nature, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be held liable for a slip and fall in bad weather. It’s their responsibility to maintain safe premises and address any weather-related hazards. Failing to do so could give injured victims the grounds to sue. 

Ways that property owners can address local weather hazards include:

• Installing adequate lighting: Dimly lit parking lots, decks, or other surfaces could cause people to fall on a slippery patch and hurt themselves. 
• Posting signage around the property: Warning someone of nearby hazards may alleviate some of a property owner’s liability. 
• Taking swift action: A prompt response can make the property safer. This could include sweeping sand from walkways or removing hazardous debris.

Document Your Accident If You Plan To File a Claim

When you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence, it’s crucial to document as much as possible. Insurance companies could deny a claim if there isn’t enough evidence in your favor. Personal injury lawyers recommend taking the following steps:

• Seek immediate medical care: Any delay in medical treatment could cause an insurance company to downplay the injury. 
• Take photos of the scene: To support your claim, photograph the accident scene to highlight any hazardous conditions.
• Notify the property owner: Tell them about the accident so they can also document it.
• Gather witness statements: Did anyone see you fall? Collect their contact information and their eyewitness account of the accident. 

Consult a Personal Injury Attorney To Review Your Case

A slip-and-fall in bad weather can lead to a complex legal case. Contact Fenstersheib Law Group, P.A. if you’re looking to file a premises liability suit. Connect with us online or call 954-456-2488 today.