If, like so many people, you’ve been hurt in a slip-and-fall accident, you’re likely facing something entirely unforeseen — medical bills that keep piling up week after week after week as you’re out of work, living with pain that feels never-ending. Here’s the good news: You’re not in this alone. You need a trusted Florida slip and fall attorney like Kevin L. Sullivan II to help you get to the bottom of what happened, hold negligent property owners responsible, and receive the compensation you deserve.
Slip-and-fall accidents can occur everywhere: In a grocery store, a restaurant or an uneven sidewalk. For victims of careless property management, that neglect can be life-changing. And yes, if it’s a puddle with no sign or a dark stairwell, you shouldn’t be paying for someone else’s error.
Why Hire Kevin L. Sullivan II for Your Slip and Fall Case
Proving a slip-and-fall claim isn’t always easy. Property owners and their insurers often deny liability or seek to cap payouts. That’s where Kevin L. Sullivan II’s work comes from.
What Sets Kevin L. Sullivan II Apart:
– Proven Track Record: Kevin had nearly 1,000 personal injury cases throughout Florida for victims of slip and fall accidents and had a long history of obtaining reasonable settlements.
– Local Knowledge: Growing up in Tampa, Kevin is just as smart as he is experienced when it comes to Florida premises liability laws and how they come into play during a typical slip and fall.
– Community Focus: Involved, Kevin works hard to give back to the Tampa Bay area. He handles each case with care and consideration, making sure that his clients are always heard and appreciated.
– No Fees Unless You Win: You will never pay your lawyer (Kevin) a penny unless he gets paid for your slip and fall lawsuit.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
There are all walks in these types of accidents, however when they are because of hazards on the property that the landowner neglected, that is most often. Some common causes include:
– Wet or slippery floors
– Potholes or uneven pavement
– Torn or loose carpeting
– Poor lighting in stairwells or walkways
– Broken railings or stairs
– Unattended Spills
When these hazards cause an accident, the property owner may be liable for their failure to provide a safe atmosphere.
Understanding Florida Premises Liability Law
If you own property in Florida, you must keep your premises safe for visitors based on your legal designation as a property owner. They are susceptible to negligence findings if they do not remedy dangers or provide sufficient warnings. To win a slip-and-fall case, you must prove the following:
1. Duty of Care: The property owner owed a duty to keep the area safe.
2. Breach of Duty: They did not remedy or warn of the danger that led to your accident.
3. Causation: Their carelessness was the direct cause of your injury.
4. Damages: You have suffered a loss — all with the accident being the cause of your doctors’ bills and lost wages, as well as pain and suffering.
What If You’re Partially At Fault?
Remember that Florida is a modified comparative fault state, which means you can recover damages if you share some fault in an accident so long as your fault is not greater than 50%. Your percentage of liability will be deducted from any award, though.
If you were 20% to blame for failing to see a wet floor sign, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. This makes it very important to have an experienced slip-and-fall accident attorney like Kevin L. Sullivan II to protect your rights.
Maximizing Your Compensation
After a slip and fall accident, the goal is to secure full and fair compensation for your losses. Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to recover:
Economic Damages
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Property damage
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
In limited circumstances, punitive damages may be available if the finder finds that the property owner behaved particularly recklessly or egregiously.
What To Do Following a Slip and Fall Accident
How you follow up after a slip-and-fall accident can impact the outcome of your case. Here’s what you should do:
1. Report the Incident: Tell the property owner or property manager and ask them to write up an accident report.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not be apparent immediately if you feel fine at first.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos of the hazard, your injuries, and what’s around the accident scene. Get contact information for any witnesses.
4. Avoid Talking to Insurers: Insurance companies often use any words that you use against you. Leave all communication to your attorney.
5. Contact an Attorney: As soon as you can get an attorney who specializes in slip and fall accidents, the better it will be for your case.
