Hawthorne Premises Liability Lawyer

Injured Because of a Dangerous Condition on Private or Public Property?

When you visit someone else’s property, whether it's a private residence, a retail store, or a public park, you have the right to expect a safe environment. Unfortunately, accidents can happen due to the negligence of property owners. If you've been injured on someone else's property, you may be entitled to compensation under premises liability law. At Schackow & Mercadante, our experienced Hawthorne premises liability attorneys are dedicated to helping victims seek the justice and compensation they deserve.

To schedule a free case evaluation, contact us today at (352) 261-6767.

What is Premises Liability in Florida?

Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners and occupiers responsible for maintaining a reasonably safe environment for visitors. In Florida, property owners owe a duty of care to ensure their premises are free from hazards that could cause harm. If they fail in this duty and someone is injured as a result, they may be held liable for the victim's injuries.

Premises liability cases can arise in various settings, including residential properties, commercial establishments, and public spaces. Whether it’s a slip and fall, a dog bite, or an accident due to inadequate security, property owners have a legal obligation to address potential dangers promptly.

What are the Elements of Proving Premises Liability?

To successfully claim premises liability in Florida, several key elements must be proven:

1. Duty of Care: The property owner must owe a duty of care to the injured party. This duty varies depending on whether the injured person is an invitee, licensee, or trespasser.
2. Breach of Duty: It must be demonstrated that the property owner breached this duty by failing to maintain the property or by not addressing known hazards.
3. Causation: The breach of duty must be the direct cause of the injury. The injured party must show that their injuries were directly caused by the property owner’s negligence.
4. Damages: The injured party must have suffered actual damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering, due to the injury.

Our Hawthorne premises liability attorneys at Schackow & Mercadante are skilled in gathering the necessary evidence to establish these elements and build a strong case on your behalf.

Common Types of Premises Liability Cases

Premises liability encompasses a wide range of scenarios. Some of the most common types of cases include:

• Slip and Fall Accidents: These are perhaps the most well-known premises liability cases. They often occur due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly maintained walkways. Property owners must regularly inspect and maintain their premises to prevent such accidents.
• Dog Bites: Property owners can be held liable if their dog attacks and injures someone on their property. Florida law imposes strict liability on dog owners, meaning they can be held responsible even if the dog has no prior history of aggression.
• Inadequate Security: When a property lacks proper security measures, it can become a dangerous environment, especially in high-crime areas. Property owners may be liable if someone is assaulted or injured due to insufficient lighting, lack of security personnel, or broken locks.
• Swimming Pool Accidents: Swimming pools pose significant risks, especially for children. Property owners are required to have proper fencing, signage, and safety measures in place to prevent drownings or injuries.
• Retail Store Accidents: Injuries in retail stores can occur from falling merchandise, slippery floors, or poorly maintained aisles. Store owners must ensure a safe shopping environment for their customers.

How Can a Hawthorne Premises Liability Attorney Help You?

Premises liability cases can be complex and challenging to navigate without legal assistance. At Schackow & Mercadante, our Hawthorne premises liability attorneys offer comprehensive legal support to help you through every step of your case. Here’s how we can assist you:

• Investigating the Incident: We conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, such as photographs, witness statements, and security footage, to support your claim.
• Determining Liability: We identify all potentially liable parties and assess the extent of their responsibility for your injuries.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will advocate for your rights and seek a fair settlement from the insurance companies.
• Litigating Your Case: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for your entitled compensation.

Call (352) 261-6767 or fill out our online contact form today to discuss your case.