Jacksonville Premises Liability Lawyer

Florida Property Owner Negligence Lawsuits

Florida's premises liability law gives people the ability to seek compensation for the injuries they suffered on someone else's property, but only under certain circumstances. Property owners are legally obligated to keep their premises safe for visitors, and when they fail, they can be held accountable for damages. However, pursuing a premises liability claim requires the skill and expertise of an experienced attorney.

At Burnetti, P.A., we have spent over 30 years fighting for the rights of those injured by negligence and have secured millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients. We understand the complexities of premises liability cases and are committed to helping you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact us online or by phone at (888) 444-8508 to learn more about your legal options. Se habla español.

What is Premises Liability?

Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility of property owners or occupiers to ensure their property is reasonably safe for those who enter. When someone is injured because of dangerous conditions on a property, they may be eligible to file a premises liability claim to recover damages.

To succeed in a premises liability claim, you must prove that the property owner or occupier was negligent in maintaining the property, and that this negligence directly caused your injury. Common premises liability cases include incidents such as slip and fall accidents, inadequate security, and dog bites. Each case requires thorough investigation and attention to detail to prove liability.

Types of Visitors and Property Owners’ Duties

Florida law classifies visitors into three categories, and property owners owe different duties of care depending on the visitor’s status:

1. Invitees: These are individuals invited onto the property for business purposes or as members of the public, such as customers at a store. Property owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees, including routine inspections and maintenance.

2. Licensees: These are social guests or individuals who enter for non-business purposes. Property owners must warn licensees of any known dangers that aren’t immediately obvious.

3. Trespassers: Individuals who enter without permission are owed a limited duty of care. Property owners are generally only required to avoid willful harm, but special rules exist for child trespassers under the "attractive nuisance" doctrine, where owners must take steps to prevent harm to children attracted by dangerous conditions.

Common Premises Liability Accidents

Premises liability accidents occur in a wide range of settings, each with unique hazards. Some of the most common types of premises liability accidents include:

• Slip and fall accidents: Often caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly lit areas.
• Dog bites: Injuries caused by unrestrained or aggressive dogs.
• Swimming pool accidents: Resulting from lack of supervision or unsafe pool conditions.
• Inadequate security: Leading to assaults, attacks, or robberies on the property.
• Elevator and escalator accidents: Caused by malfunctions or lack of maintenance.
• Structural collapses: Including building or roof collapses due to faulty construction or lack of upkeep.
• Fire and electrical accidents: Resulting from code violations or negligent maintenance.
• Exposure to toxic substances: Such as asbestos or harmful chemicals in buildings.

Each type of accident requires specific evidence to establish liability, which is why having an experienced premises liability attorney is crucial.

Injuries from Premises Liability Accidents

Premises liability accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering damage. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Sprains and strains
• Head and brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Burns and electrical injuries
• Lacerations and deep cuts
• Internal injuries
• Emotional trauma

These injuries can result in costly medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation. Victims may be entitled to compensation for these damages, which is why pursuing a claim with the help of a skilled attorney is so important.

Proving Liability in a Premises Liability Case

To successfully file a premises liability claim in Florida, you must establish four key elements:

1. Duty of Care: Proving the property owner owed you a duty of care based on your status (invitee, licensee, or trespasser).

2. Breach of Duty: Showing the property owner failed to uphold their duty by not addressing or warning of hazards.

3. Causation: Demonstrating that this breach of duty directly caused your injury.

4. Damages: Providing evidence of the harm you suffered, including medical bills, lost income, and other expenses.

At Burnetti, P.A., we investigate all aspects of your accident, gather critical evidence, and work with experts when necessary to strengthen your case.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Premises Liability Accident?

Several parties may be held liable for a premises liability accident, depending on the circumstances. These include:

• Property owners
• Property managers
• Tenants or leaseholders
• Businesses operating on the premises
• Maintenance companies
• Security firms

Each case is unique, and liability may depend on who was responsible for maintaining the property or correcting the hazard.

Compensation for Premises Liability in Florida

Victims of premises liability accidents in Florida may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses: Covering treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, and future care needs.
• Lost wages and future earnings: Compensation for income lost during recovery and any loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury.
• Loss of consortium: Compensation for the impact of the injury on relationships with family or spouses.
• Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

Burnetti, P.A. has a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for clients, including substantial settlements and verdicts.

How Long Do You Have to File a Premises Liability Lawsuit?

In Florida, you generally have two years from the date of the accident  (This recently changed from four years) to file a premises liability lawsuit. If the accident resulted in wrongful death, the time limit is still only two years. It’s essential to act quickly, as waiting too long can jeopardize your claim.

Committed Advocates Here for You

A property owner in Florida owes you a certain duty of care when you’re on his or her property, and when that duty is violated and you’re injured as a result, the effects can be considerable. There’s no time to waste. After seeking any necessary medical treatment, consult with an experienced Florida premises liability attorney. Don’t put it off.

Contact Burnetti, P.A. for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property in Jacksonville, the legal team at Burnetti, P.A. is here to help. We have the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Start your consultation with an experienced Jacksonville premises liability lawyer at Burnetti, P.A. by calling (888) 444-8508 today.