Slip and Fall Attorney in Tallahassee
313 North Monroe Street, Suite 401
Tallahassee, FL 32301
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Tallahassee Slip and Fall Lawyer
Not only is Tallahassee the state capital of Florida, but it is also a lovely historic city to visit or live in. However, there is one place you would like to avoid in Tallahassee—the HCA Florida Capital Hospital emergency room.
Nothing ruins a pleasant day faster than slipping on a dock near Upper Lake Lafayette or falling at the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park. A bad fall might not just end in a few hours at the hospital; it could result in months or even years of medical treatment and therapy, depending on the severity of the fall.
If you are in your living room or bedroom, there is probably no one to blame for a bad fall except possibly an overzealous pet. But if you are in any public place, the property owner could be responsible for paying for the medical bills you incur after a slip and fall accident.
If you have been injured due to a fall, consult with slip and fall attorneys in Tallahassee, FL, at Morgan & Morgan to find out whether you are eligible for compensation for your injuries. Our lawyers understand the law and are eager to help you get money so you can recover quickly.
Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation and learn more about your legal options.
The Basics of Premises Liability Claims
When you visit the grocery store or the local courthouse, you are entering a public place. This has several legal implications, including the concept of premises liability. The short version of this principle is that the owner of a property is responsible for ensuring the safety of any people that they allow to enter.
Safety is a relatively open-ended concept. But for slip and fall attorneys in Tallahassee, FL, the relevant part of that concept has to do with slipping and tripping hazards. The owner of the property is expected to ensure that these types of hazards don’t exist or that visitors are properly warned if they do exist.
How much effort must be put into ensuring that a property is safe depends on several factors. A public pool, for example, will generally have many more slipping hazards than an office building. Just about every property can be dangerous, though. And every property owner is responsible if they are negligent in preventing injuries.
That responsibility creates a legal opportunity for anyone who is injured in a slip and fall accident while in a public place. The injured party can file a lawsuit to collect compensation for injuries resulting from the negligence of a property owner or can make a claim against the liability insurance policy of that individual.
Where You Are Likely to Slip and Fall in Tallahassee
Sadly, no place is completely safe. While you are more likely to slip on wet stairs or on a muddy floor, you could potentially fall anywhere with a little bad luck. With that being said, there are some places in Tallahassee that pose greater risks. You should show extra care when visiting these locations.
Country Clubs
There are several country clubs around the city of Tallahassee. While the freshly cut grass of a golf course isn’t likely to be particularly dangerous, the pools, spas, and locker rooms that are common in most country clubs present a significant danger of slip and fall accidents.
Pools should always be manned by certified lifeguards, and there should be plenty of signs warning about slippery floors in these areas. Janitorial staff should also be drying floors regularly to limit how slippery these floors get. If this isn’t happening and you fall, the country club may be liable for your injuries.
Tallahassee International Airport
Airports represent multiple slip and fall dangers. One of the most common dangers is the moving walkways and escalators in the airport. Many people get injured when attempting to transfer to or from one of these while they are in motion. You can also get injured if either of these devices stops without warning.
Another slip and fall danger in the terminal is in the food court. With millions of people hurriedly traveling through this airport every year, food spills are common. If these aren’t quickly cleaned, they create a hazard for the travelers rushing through the terminal to catch a flight.
Finally, parking structures and parking lots represent a common slip and fall threat, particularly at night. If all of the lights are working, the risk is mostly mitigated. But when lights go out, you could easily slip or trip on something unseen. The airport is responsible for maintaining these lights and changing them quickly when they burn out.
Public Parks
Tallahassee has several public parks throughout the city. And almost every park is connected to one of the beautiful lakes that dot the area.
Unfortunately, these parks are rarely as well kept as the grounds of a country club. Leaves, fallen branches, and other debris all represent potential slipping hazards when moving around the park. You should watch your feet very carefully and try to avoid any ground that looks unstable.
Furthermore, the area near the lakes tends to be muddy or wet. Docks and similar structures can be particularly dangerous; a fall from one of these lake-side structures can result in an unexpected dunk in the lake. And if you don’t know how to swim, that could be fatal.
Any Place With Crowds
Because it is both the capital of the state and a popular location for tourists, Tallahassee often sees large crowds at major events or prominent locales. When there are lots of people around, you are more likely to be pushed or tripped, leading to slip and fall accidents.
Malls, amusements, and restaurants are some of the places that are most likely to be crowded, especially during peak hours. Tallahassee is also home to several public events and parades throughout the year. When in crowded locations, you should try to stay near walls or railings to avoid an unfortunate fall.
How Slip and Fall Attorneys in Tallahassee, FL, Can Help You
Unless you spent the better part of a decade in law school, you probably only have a minimal understanding of liability and negligence, which is understandable. Most people only barely comprehend these topics, despite the fact that they have a significant impact on their lives.
At Morgan and Morgan, our slip and fall attorneys in Tallahassee, FL, have decades of experience with legal concepts. We can quickly and accurately determine whether another party was liable for your accident during a free case evaluation. This means you can understand your options without spending six or more years in law school.
But we do more than just tell you whether you are eligible for compensation. We also determine how much your case is worth and help you navigate the claims process. That first part is often more complicated than potential clients realize.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, you can potentially collect hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the severity and circumstances of your fall. In most slip and fall cases, you will be eligible to receive compensation for:
- All medical bills
- Post-treatment therapy
- Medical devices and assistance services
- Lost wages and opportunities
Our slip and fall attorneys in Tallahassee, FL, can calculate the total value of these expenses and losses. Due to our familiarity with similar cases, we can often estimate this value very precisely. Without our assistance, you would likely face unexpected costs that wouldn’t be covered because you already received money from the insurance company.
Our assistance doesn’t end with determining the value of your claim. Once we have calculated that, we bring our evidence to the insurance company and fight to get you the compensation that you deserve.
Typically, if we have properly documented your case, we can compel the insurance company to make a fair settlement offer that covers all of your current and predicted expenses. Our slip and fall attorneys in Tallahassee, FL, are experienced at this type of negotiation and usually convince the insurance company to agree to a fair settlement.
The worst-case scenario is that the insurance company refuses to agree to a fair offer. This is pretty rare, especially when you are represented by a Morgan & Morgan lawyer, but it still happens occasionally.
If the insurance company refuses to agree to a fair settlement, we will start a lawsuit on your behalf. In many cases, just filing the lawsuit is enough to bring the insurer back to the negotiating table. But even if it isn’t, we won’t give up on your case.
Our attorneys have decades of trial experience. We will fight to get you every dollar. For the most part, you will be able to focus on your recovery while our lawyers give you regular updates about the progress of your case.
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FAQ
Get answers to commonly asked questions about our legal services and learn how we may assist you with your case.
How do I know if I have a slip and fall claim in Tallahassee, Florida?
Every slip and fall case is different, but in all personal injury claims in Tallahassee, Florida, there are a few elements that we look at to see if you might have a case. We check to see if:
- There were damages: Personal injury lawsuits in Tallahassee are filed to recover “damages.” These include costs like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To qualify for a lawsuit, an injury must have significant associated costs, which vary by state.
- Someone else was at fault: In Tallahassee, to seek compensation from someone else’s insurance company, you must demonstrate that their negligence directly caused or contributed to your injuries.
- There’s enough insurance coverage: In Tallahassee, personal injury lawsuits are typically filed against insurance companies rather than individuals. To secure compensation, the responsible party must have sufficient insurance coverage to address the injured person’s medical expenses or fully compensate them for their injuries.
If you are unsure if you have a case in Tallahassee, Florida, contact us. We're here to help.
What should I do immediately after a slip and fall accident in Tallahassee, Florida?
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident in Tallahassee, Florida, you should first and foremost seek medical attention. Your health should be your top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor, as some injuries may not appear immediately.
If you’re at a business or commercial property, notify the manager or property owner and request an incident report. Also, be sure to take photographs or videos of the scene, especially the hazard that caused your fall. If anyone saw the accident, get their contact details; their testimony may be important later.
As you continue to recover from your injuries, document your medical treatment, any missed work, and other ways the injury has affected your life.
The second most important thing you can do is to consult an attorney in Tallahassee, Florida. An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
How long after a slip and fall accident can I file a claim in Tallahassee, Florida?
The statute of limitations is a legally defined time limit for how long someone has to file a lawsuit. This varies depending on your type of case and your state.
If you’ve experienced a slip and fall in Tallahassee, filing your claim within the required period following the accident is important. Missing this deadline may affect your ability to seek compensation.
However, it’s best to consult with an attorney in Tallahassee as soon as possible after the incident, as gathering evidence and building a case can take time. Your attorney can also assist you with filing everything correctly and on time.
How long does it take to resolve a slip and fall claim in Tallahassee, Florida?
The timeline for resolving a slip and fall case depends on different factors, such as the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and whether the property owner’s insurance company is willing to settle for the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Some slip and fall cases are resolved in a few months, while others can take a year or more if litigation is necessary. At Morgan & Morgan, we strive to resolve cases as quickly as possible while still pursuing maximum compensation for our clients in Tallahassee, Florida.
Our army of over 1,000 trial-ready attorneys is prepared to fight to the very end for the compensation our clients in Tallahassee need and deserve to move forward with their lives. When you work with Morgan & Morgan, your attorney will keep you informed about the progress of your case at every step of the way.
Why should I hire Morgan & Morgan in Tallahassee, Florida?
At Morgan & Morgan, our team of experienced slip and fall attorneys has successfully represented countless clients in Tallahassee and similar situations, securing millions in compensation. As the country's largest personal injury law firm with over 1,000 lawyers nationwide, we have the resources, knowledge, and dedication to fight for your rights.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t have to pay unless we win your case. Morgan & Morgan believes justice should be accessible to all, so our motto is the Fee Is Free™—you only pay if we win.
We take pride in ensuring that negligent property owners in Tallahassee, Florida, are held accountable for the harm they’ve caused. Don’t bear the burden of your injuries on your own because of someone else’s negligence. Contact Morgan & Morgan in Tallahassee, Florida, today for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options.
How much does it cost to hire Morgan & Morgan in Tallahassee, Florida?
Morgan & Morgan’s slip & fall lawyers in Tallahassee, Florida, work on a contingency fee basis, meaning that there are no upfront fees or expenses until your case comes to a successful conclusion. That’s right—the Fee Is Free™, and you only pay if we win. Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict amount, ensuring we are motivated to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
What compensation can I recover for a slip & fall claim in Tallahassee, Florida?
The compensation you may recover from a slip and fall lawsuit depends on various factors, such as the severity of your injuries, medical costs, and how the accident has affected your life. Typically, compensation can include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages during recovery, financial relief for physical and emotional pain and suffering, reduced quality of life, permanent disabilities, and even future loss of earning capacity.
Since every case is unique, the amount of compensation will vary. An experienced attorney at Morgan & Morgan in Tallahassee, Florida, can assess your case and give you a clearer picture of what you may be entitled to. You can learn more with a free case evaluation.
Do I have to pay for a consultation with a slip & fall lawyer in Tallahassee, Florida?
No. Consultations at Morgan & Morgan in Tallahassee, Florida, are completely free. We believe everyone deserves access to legal advice, regardless of their financial situation. Hiring one of our slip and fall lawyers is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation on our site or by phone.
Who will be on my slip & fall case team in Tallahassee, Florida?
When you hire Morgan & Morgan, you don’t just hire a lawyer; you hire the largest personal injury law firm in the country with an army of over 1,000 lawyers and offices across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Your case in Tallahassee, Florida, will be handled by a dedicated team of professionals, including personal injury lawyers, paralegals, and support staff. You will be assigned a care team with a primary attorney overseeing your case and ensuring you receive personalized attention.
When do I meet with my slip & fall lawyer in Tallahassee?
After your initial consultation, your care team will schedule regular meetings to discuss your case, provide updates, and prepare you for any upcoming proceedings. We are committed to maintaining open lines of communication and keeping you informed every step of the way. Depending on your case’s requirements and your ability to do so, these meetings can be conducted in person, virtually, or by phone.
Can I sue my landlord for a slip and fall claim in Tallahassee, Florida?
What if you slip and fall in your apartment building in Tallahassee and end up injured? It might not be clear if you’re able to sue your landlord. This depends on the law in Tallahassee, Florida.
Generally, a landlord is responsible for maintaining all of a property’s common areas reasonably safe.
As with other property owners, if a landlord knows an unsafe condition exists or should have known about it and does nothing to fix it, then the landlord might be responsible for paying damages to the injured party.
Proving this depends on the circumstances of each case. To determine this, courts will consider factors such as the length of time the unsafe condition existed and the severity of the hazard. In certain circumstances, landlords can also be held liable for slip and falls that occur in a tenant’s apartment.
When a new tenant moves into a Tallahassee apartment, the landlord must inform the tenant of any known defects on the premises. The failure to inform a tenant of defects that the tenant could not have discovered during a reasonable inspection of the property could mean the landlord is liable if a slip & fall accident occurs. Also, a landlord may be liable for slip and falls within a tenant’s apartment when a building code or ordinance is violated. As always, it depends on the circumstances of the case and local Tallahassee laws.
Can I file a slip and fall lawsuit against a business in Tallahassee, Florida, if I didn’t report it immediately?
Yes, you can still file a lawsuit in Tallahassee, Florida, even if you didn’t immediately report the slip and fall accident. However, reporting the incident as soon as possible strengthens your case, as it creates an official record of what happened. If you didn’t report it immediately, you’ll need to provide other compelling evidence to support your claim, such as witness statements from people who saw the accident, medical records that tie your injury directly to the fall, or photographs or videos showing the hazardous condition.
A Morgan & Morgan attorney in Tallahassee can help you gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case, even if there was a delay in reporting the incident.
Who is responsible if I slip and fall at an Airbnb in Tallahassee, Florida?
Airbnb is a popular alternative to traditional hotels and other standard accommodation options for travelers around the world, including those visiting or staying in Tallahassee, Florida. Staying in homes and other properties listed on the service is often more affordable than hotels or resorts, but what happens if you or your family get hurt at someone else’s property? Whose insurance covers your slip and fall accidents?
Airbnb is known for providing its hosts with Host Protection Insurance, which is the primary insurance policy in effect for hosts during a guest’s stay and carries $1 million worth of coverage per stay. This means that if you’re injured on a host’s property, you’d likely seek compensation for your medical bills and other expenses from Airbnb’s insurer. Airbnb’s million-dollar insurance policy applies on a per-occurrence basis for an accident involving bodily injury or property damage, according to Airbnb materials on its site.
Can I file a slip and fall lawsuit if my injury occurred on government property in Tallahassee, Florida?
If you were injured in a slip and fall on government property in Tallahassee, Florida, you have the right to file a lawsuit, but the process involves additional steps. First, you must submit a claim notice to the government. If your claim is denied or you receive no response, you may then proceed with filing a lawsuit. Since these cases are more complex than standard slip and fall claims, it’s wise to consult an attorney experienced in handling government liability cases.
When do slip and fall accidents happen in Tallahassee, Florida?
Trip, tumble, slip, and fall accidents can happen anywhere —from grocery stores and shopping malls to sidewalks and workplaces. Understanding the most common causes can help victims recognize when they may be entitled to compensation.
- Wet or Slippery Surfaces: The most common cause of slip and fall accidents is wet or slippery floors. Water, oil, or other liquids—from spills, leaks, or cleaning activities—create hazardous conditions that catch people off guard. Businesses and property owners are responsible for ensuring that floors are kept dry or clearly marked with warning signs when they’re wet.
- Uneven Flooring or Sidewalks: Cracked, uneven, or poorly maintained floors and sidewalks are common causes of slip and fall accidents. Examples include torn carpets, broken tiles, loose or unstable floorboards, and raised sidewalks caused by tree roots or weathering. Property owners are responsible for repairing or clearly marking uneven surfaces to help prevent such accidents.
- Inadequate Lighting: Poor lighting can make it difficult for people to see obstacles, uneven surfaces, or wet spots, increasing the likelihood of a slip and fall. This is especially dangerous in areas such as parking lots, stairwells, hallways, and entrances and exits.
Inadequate lighting often results from poor property maintenance, and the property owner is responsible for ensuring all areas are well-lit and safe for visitors.
- Clutter and Obstacles: Debris, wires, merchandise, or other items left in walkways create tripping hazards in high-traffic areas. Property owners and employees must ensure that floors are clear of obstacles.
- Defective or Broken Staircases: Broken handrails, loose steps, or uneven stair heights are common causes of falls on staircases. Property owners and managers must ensure that staircases are maintained and compliant with safety codes to prevent accidents. A fall down stairs can lead to particularly severe injuries, such as head trauma or spinal damage.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and ice can create hazardous conditions, especially when not properly managed. Icy sidewalks, slippery entryways, and rain-soaked floors increase the risk of slip and fall accidents. While property owners can’t control the weather, they are responsible for taking reasonable steps to minimize danger, such as shoveling snow, salting icy areas, and providing mats for wet shoes.
How can I hold a negligent property owner accountable in Tallahassee, Florida?
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall or another accident on someone else’s property in Tallahassee, Florida, you have the right to hold the property owner accountable for their negligence. Property owners in Tallahassee, Florida, have a legal responsibility to maintain safe premises, and when they fail to do so, they can be held liable for injuries that occur as a result.
Premises liability law holds property owners in Tallahassee, Florida, responsible for injuries that occur on their property due to unsafe conditions. This applies to various settings, such as homes, businesses, apartment buildings, and public spaces in the city. The key to a successful premises liability claim is proving that the property owner’s negligence directly caused your injury.
You must demonstrate that:
- The property owner owed you a duty of care: This duty varies depending on your status as a visitor. For example, customers are owed the highest duty of care in retail spaces, while trespassers are generally afforded less protection.
- They breached that duty: The property owner failed to fix or warn you about hazardous conditions, such as a wet floor or broken handrail.
- The breach caused your injury: There must be a clear connection between the unsafe condition and your injury.
- You suffered damages: You must show that your injury led to damages such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
To do this, gather evidence, such as photographs or videos of the hazard, witness statements, incident reports, and medical records from your injuries and treatment. Report the accident to the property owner to create a record of the incident. Finally, contact a slip and fall lawyer at Morgan & Morgan in Tallahassee.
Premises liability claims can be complex, and having an experienced attorney in Tallahassee, Florida, by your side will increase your chances of a successful outcome. At Morgan & Morgan, we have over 35 years of experience handling premises liability cases, and we know what it takes to hold negligent property owners accountable. Our attorneys work diligently to gather evidence and build a compelling case that proves the property owner’s responsibility for your injury.
If negotiations with the property owner’s insurance company in Tallahassee, Florida, don’t result in a fair settlement, your attorney may advise filing a premises liability lawsuit. This formal legal action seeks to hold the property owner legally and financially responsible for your injury. Compensation can cover various damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages from missed work, and pain and suffering.
How can a slip & fall injury impact your life in Tallahassee, Florida?
A slip and fall injury might initially seem minor, but its consequences can be serious and long-lasting. These incidents can result in physical, emotional, and financial hardships, disrupting many aspects of life. At Morgan & Morgan, we recognize the significant impact of slip and fall injuries and are dedicated to helping Tallahassee, Florida, victims secure the compensation they deserve.
Physical Impact: The most immediate and noticeable effect of a slip and fall injury is the physical harm it causes. Injuries can range from minor bruises to severe, life-altering conditions, such as:
- Broken bones: Fractures in the arms, wrists, ankles, or hips are common, especially in older adults.
- Head injuries: Slip and fall accidents can result in traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, or skull fractures, which may lead to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
- Spinal cord injuries: A fall can damage the spine, leading to chronic pain, limited mobility, or even paralysis in severe cases.
- Soft tissue injuries: Ligament tears, sprains, and strains can cause ongoing pain and require months of rehabilitation. These injuries may require surgery, physical therapy, or extended hospital stays, all of which can disrupt your daily life and limit your independence.
Emotional Impact: The emotional toll of a slip and fall injury can be just as significant as the physical damage. Victims in Tallahassee, Florida, may experience:
- Anxiety and fear: After an accident, it’s common to feel anxious about walking in public places or even within your own home, fearing another fall.
- Depression: The loss of mobility or independence can lead to feelings of hopelessness and depression, especially if the injury prevents you from working or enjoying activities you once loved.
- Social isolation: If your injury limits your ability to engage in social activities, you may feel cut off from your community, contributing to loneliness and emotional distress. These emotional struggles are a legitimate and important part of the recovery process, and victims deserve compensation for the mental anguish caused by a slip and fall accident.
Financial Impact: The financial impact of a slip and fall injury can be significant. Expenses for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care can accumulate rapidly, leaving victims at risk of severe financial strain without proper compensation. Some of the primary financial challenges include:
- Medical bills: Hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and ongoing medical care can quickly become expensive, especially if your injury requires long-term treatment.
- Lost wages: If your injury keeps you from working, you could lose weeks or even months of income. In some cases, victims may be unable to return to their prior jobs or experience a reduced earning capacity because of their injury.
- Rehabilitation costs: Long-term physical therapy, home modifications, and assistive devices (such as wheelchairs or walkers) can create additional financial stress. A successful slip and fall claim can help cover these expenses, allowing victims to focus on their recovery without the added burden of financial worry.
Impact on Quality of Life: A serious slip and fall injury can significantly reduce your quality of life. You may face challenges in performing daily activities, such as:
- Loss of mobility: Injuries like fractures or spinal damage can limit your ability to move freely or care for yourself.
- Chronic pain: Many slip and fall injuries result in ongoing pain that affects your ability to sleep, work, or enjoy recreational activities.
- Loss of independence: Some victims may require assistance with personal care or mobility, forcing them to rely on others or move into assisted living facilities.
In some cases, these changes are permanent, and victims are left with a diminished quality of life that impacts their ability to engage in hobbies, maintain relationships, and enjoy their day-to-day experiences.
What kind of evidence do I need to prove a slip and fall accident was caused by negligence in Tallahassee, Florida?
To successfully prove that a property owner’s negligence caused your slip and fall accident in Tallahassee, Florida, you’ll need to gather solid evidence, including:
- Photographs or videos of the hazardous condition: Capture images of the wet floor, broken steps, uneven surfaces, or any other dangerous condition that caused your fall in Tallahassee, Florida
- Witness statements: Collect statements from anyone who saw the accident or can confirm the hazardous condition.
- Incident reports: If the accident happened at a business or other commercial property in Tallahassee, Florida, ask for an incident report and make sure to obtain a copy.
- Medical records: Ensure your medical records document your injuries, the treatment you’ve received, and how the injury affects your daily life.
- Maintenance logs or inspection reports: These can show whether the property in Tallahassee, Florida, was regularly checked for hazards or if safety standards were neglected.
All of this evidence can help prove that the property owner or manager failed to take reasonable steps to prevent accidents.
What should I do if the property owner in Tallahassee, Florida, claims they were unaware of the hazardous condition that caused
If a property owner in Tallahassee, Florida, claims they were unaware of the hazardous condition that caused your slip and fall, you can still hold them liable if you can prove negligence. Property owners are responsible for maintaining reasonably safe conditions, and this includes regularly inspecting their premises for potential hazards.
To strengthen your case in Tallahassee, Florida, gather evidence such as:
- Photos or videos of the hazardous condition.
- Witness statements from others who saw the condition.
- Maintenance logs showing whether the property was regularly inspected and maintained.
If the hazardous condition had existed for a long time or was obvious, the owner’s claim of unawareness might not absolve them of responsibility.