Fort Lauderdale Premises Liability Lawyer

Fort Lauderdale Premises Liability Attorney

Accidents on someone else’s property can lead to severe, life-altering injuries as well as hefty medical costs and emotional trauma. If you were injured on someone’s property in Fort Lauderdale, you may be able to open a premises liability claim. A Fort Lauderdale premises liability lawyer can help you understand your options under Florida law.

It’s natural to feel angry when you were hurt due to another party’s negligence. When an accident affects you and your family’s ability to live life like you have in the past, it can be incredibly stressful. While money cannot take away your pain or trauma, seeking compensation to help you recover damages can be a way to ease the burden.

Experienced Premises Liability Attorneys in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Founded in Miami in 2000, the Law Office of Alexander Alvarez serves injured individuals and families throughout Florida. Alexander Alvarez has over 30 years of legal experience and is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Court Mediator.

His background includes defending hospitals and medical professionals, which gives him valuable insider knowledge when working on injury cases.

Fort Lauderdale Premises Liability Medical Laws

Property owners must maintain their property in a reasonably safe condition for visitors, customers, and tenants. When they fail to do so, injured individuals may be able to bring a claim for damages. In Fort Lauderdale, these cases are typically handled through the county’s circuit court, located at 201 Southeast 6th Street.

There are extensive laws surrounding premises liability claims, as the types of property, injuries, and relationship between the owner and the victim can vary. In personal injury cases, Florida limits what can be claimed for medical expenses.

Only actual amounts paid, reasonable future costs, or standard rates such as Medicare or Medicaid amounts can be considered. It’s important to hire a premises liability lawyer to fully understand what can be recovered in your unique case.

In 2022, in Florida, unintentional injuries were the leading cause of death among residents aged 1-44. Common types of premises liability cases include:

• Slip-and-fall accidents. Wet floors and uneven surfaces often lead to serious injuries. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, 50% of slips-and-fall incidents in the United States are due to the walkway’s surface. The Broward Health emergency room, located at 6401 North Federal Hwy, often deals with these types of incidents.
• Negligent security. Property owners who fail to provide reasonable security can be liable if someone is assaulted.
• Dog bites. Pet owners may be liable when their dog bites someone, especially on their property.
• Unsafe stairways or handrails. Missing or broken railings can lead to falls and injuries.
• Falling objects. Merchandise or equipment falling can cause severe injuries.

Florida’s Comparative Negligence System

Florida uses a comparative negligence system in personal injury cases. If an injured person is partially at fault, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a person is found 20% responsible for their fall, their total recovery will be reduced by 20%. Under Florida premises liability law, the injured party must prove the following:

• The property owner owed a legal duty of care.
• The owner breached that duty by failing to maintain the premises.
• The breach directly caused the injury.
• The injury resulted in damages, such as medical costs or lost income.

Exceptions to Premises Liability Claims

If someone is injured due to a criminal act on commercial property, Florida law requires that everyone’s role in the incident be considered, not just the property owner. Property owners are usually not responsible if someone trespasses and gets hurt, especially if the trespasser was inebriated.

The owner can still be held liable if they acted with extreme carelessness or intentionally caused harm. However, if someone is committing a felony on the property and gets injured, the owner is not responsible.

Why Choose Us?

At the Law Office of Alexander Alvarez, we know that accidents on someone else’s property can have devastating consequences. Attorney Alexander Alvarez brings over three decades of litigation experience to each case.

With our firm based in Miami, we care deeply about Florida residents and protecting their legal rights. You’ll work directly with experienced personal injury attorneys who can explain your rights, answer your questions, and keep you informed every step of the way.

Our longtime paralegal, Arlene, has been with our firm since day one and is always ready to provide guidance and support. We offer free consultations to those injured in Fort Lauderdale and approach every case with the compassion it requires.

FAQs

What Evidence Is Crucial in a Premises Liability Case?

Evidence that is crucial in a premises liability case can include photographs of the accident scene, security footage, incident reports, and medical records. Witness statements and expert testimony may also help establish negligence. However, preserving evidence quickly is important, as it can quickly become tampered with or lost. Like all personal injury cases, strong evidence is essential to determining the strength of your case and the likelihood of success.

What Are My Options if I am Injured Due to Premises Liability?

If you are injured due to premises liability, your legal options for pursuing justice depend on your specific case. It could include seeking damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. It can be worth pursuing a claim, especially if the extent of your injuries is severe and you have a significant amount of evidence. You deserve to seek justice for your pain and hold the party who caused your injury legally responsible.

How Long Do I Have to File My Claim in Florida?

In Florida, you have two years from the date of your injury to file a premises liability claim. This time limit was changed in 2023 from four years to two, so acting quickly is important. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. Because every case is different, speaking with a premises liability attorney as soon as possible can help make sure your claim is filed within the correct time frame.

What Is the Difference Between Negligence and Premises Liability?

Negligence is an umbrella term that refers to a party failing to act with reasonable care. This can include car accidents, medical malpractice, and premises liability. Premises liability is a specific type of negligence that applies to unsafe conditions on property. While all premises liability cases involve negligence, not all negligence cases involve premises liability.

Next Steps After a Premises Injury

If you were hurt on someone else’s property in Fort Lauderdale, speak with the Law Office of Alexander Alvarez. Our firm handles premises liability cases across South Florida and understands the laws that apply to residential, business, and public properties. Contact us today to schedule your first free consultation.

Fort Lauderdale Premises Liability Lawyer Reviews

Fort Lauderdale Premises Liability Resources:

• How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost in Florida?
• What Makes a Valid Premises Liability Claim in Florida?
• What Damages Can You Claim in a Slip-and-Fall Lawsuit?
• How to Prove Negligent Security in Fort Lauderdale, FL