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Liability in a Florida slip and fall case depends on whether the property owner or occupier was negligent in maintaining safe premises. Florida law requires property owners to inspect for hazards, correct dangerous conditions, or warn visitors of known dangers. The duty of care owed depends on the visitor's status — invitees (customers, guests invited for the owner's benefit) receive the highest protection. You must prove the owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to act. Liability can extend to landlords, tenants, businesses, and management companies depending on who controlled the premises.

To recover compensation in a Florida slip and fall case, you must prove: (1) the defendant owned or controlled the premises; (2) a dangerous condition existed; (3) the owner knew or should have known about it; (4) they failed to fix or warn of the hazard; and (5) the hazard caused your injury and resulting damages. Florida also applies modified comparative negligence — if you are found more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover. If you are partially at fault below 50%, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

Florida slip and fall victims may recover economic damages including medical expenses (past and future), lost wages, and reduced earning capacity, as well as non-economic damages including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving particularly egregious negligence, punitive damages may also be available. The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the duration of recovery, and the impact on your daily life and ability to work.

Under Florida Statute § 95.11, the statute of limitations for slip and fall personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident for incidents occurring on or after March 24, 2023 (HB 837). For accidents before that date, the prior four-year limitation may apply. Claims against government entities have additional notice requirements with shorter windows. Acting quickly preserves evidence and protects all of your legal options.