Slipping on Puddles Outside Businesses in Tampa: Can I Sue?
Puddles are relatively common in Tampa, particularly after a major downpour. If you slipped and fell after walking in a puddle, you might suffer serious injuries. These might include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), sprained ankles, broken hips, and much more. Can you sue a business for failing to clean up these puddles? Could a slip and fall lawyer in Tampa help?
Can a Puddle Lead to a Slip-and-Fall Lawsuit in Tampa?
A puddle outside of a business in Tampa can certainly lead to a slip-and-fall lawsuit under certain circumstances. First, the puddle must lead to a real accident and legitimate injuries. If you simply lose your footing and regain your balance without slipping, you cannot file a personal injury lawsuit. If you do suffer a puddle-related injury, you should immediately seek treatment. This will create medical records that you can use as evidence in your claim.
Second, you may need to consider the specific cause of the puddle. If the puddle is caused by a persistent leak or structural issue related to the business, a valid claim may be more likely. This is because if the company did something to cause the puddle to form, they are more likely to be held liable for any resulting injuries. For example, a defect in the sidewalk or awning of a business may cause the same leak to create a puddle in the same place. If this occurs, the business becomes inherently aware of the hazard. It is therefore reasonable to expect the business to do something about the hazard.
Things get a little more complex if the puddle is caused by weather-related factors. For example, Tampa might experience intense rainfall over a few days. This rainfall may cause persistent puddles across the entire city. The business in question might have a few days to clean up or drain the puddles before they become liable for any resulting injuries. After all, extreme weather is often completely unpredictable.
Some Puddles Are More Hazardous Than Others
Not all puddles are created equal. Some are made up of water, while others might consist of oil, soaps, and other liquids that are inherently slippier than water. It is also worth noting that non-water-based puddles are more likely to be caused by human factors rather than weather-related factors.
What Should I Do After Slipping on a Puddle?
If you can, take a picture of the puddle and its surroundings. You might also want to ascertain the source of the leak or water. That being said, medical treatment should always be the first priority.
Can a Tampa Slip and Fall Lawyer Help Me?
A Tampa slip and fall lawyer may be able to help if you’re struggling with fall-related injuries. If you slipped in a puddle and you believe that this represents a form of premises negligence, you might be correct. Explore these suspicions further alongside an experienced personal injury attorney. Continue this conversation with Anderson & Anderson by contacting us at your earliest convenience.
Source:
wusf.org/environment/2025-01-16/how-florida-water-managers-dealing-increased-flooding-climate-change
