Falling inside a grocery store or falling off a ledge without any handrails can cause a lot of damage. Such accidents have the potential to be life-changing, if not outright fatal. In Florida, you can pursue a premises liability claim if hazardous conditions in a person’s property harm or injure you. However, the key to a successful claim is finding the right evidence.
What evidence does the court consider for premises liability?
It is difficult to prove premises liability without evidence. You must establish the hazardous conditions present in the property, how long it has been around and whether or not the property owner is aware of the hazard. Typically, this means gathering proof such as:
- Surveillance footage of the accident
- Photographs of the accident
- Statements from witnesses who saw the hazard or fall
- Incident reports written by business or property managers
- Complaints and similar incidents that show patterns and recurring problems
- Maintenance logs revealing cleaning schedules, repair history or missed inspections
- Medical bills and pharmacy records that prove injuries and ongoing treatments
However, there are limitations concerning which accidents the state can consider premises liability. For example, if a convenience store follows the state’s safety rules regarding proper lighting, security cameras and wet floor signs, it is less likely to be responsible for premises liability if someone slips and falls inside – assuming these warnings are adequate and timely.
Why is it important to gather evidence quickly?
Florida has a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the incident, though it is also important to mention that not all premises liability cases are the same. Deadlines may vary on a case-by-case basis, especially for government entities. The statute of limitations prevents evidence from vanishing and witnesses from forgetting key details.
Deadlines also encourage quick and efficient investigations. By gathering evidence in a timely manner, you significantly increase the odds of finding useful proof, making your case even stronger. This way, you can receive financial compensation for injuries you suffer due to premises liability.
