Understanding Florida Premises Liability Laws: Your Rights After an Accident

If you’re hurt on someone else’s property in Florida, premises liability laws could give you the right to seek compensation. Here’s a clear, plain-language breakdown of what those laws mean for you.

Accidents can happen anywhere — from grocery stores and apartment complexes to hotels and parking lots. In Florida, premises liability laws are designed to hold property owners accountable when unsafe conditions cause injury.

What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability refers to a property owner’s legal responsibility to maintain safe conditions for visitors. If they fail to do so and you’re injured as a result, you may have a legal claim.

Who Is Protected Under Florida Law?

Florida law recognizes different types of visitors:

Invitees: Customers, guests, or others invited onto the property.
Licensees: People allowed on the property for their own purposes, like social guests.
Trespassers: In limited cases, even trespassers have certain protections, especially children under the “attractive nuisance” doctrine.

Common Examples of Premises Liability Cases

Slip and falls due to wet floors
Trip hazards from uneven pavement
Poor lighting in stairwells or parking lots
Falling objects from shelves or construction areas

Property Owner Responsibilities

Owners must regularly inspect their property, fix hazards, and provide clear warnings. Failing to do so can lead to legal liability.

Your Rights After an Accident

If you’re injured:

Seek immediate medical care — your health comes first.
Document the hazard — photos and witness statements help your case.
Report the incident to the property manager or owner.
Consult an attorney who understands Florida premises liability law.

At CEDA, we treat your injuries right away and can connect you with skilled attorneys who know how to navigate Florida’s premises liability laws, helping you recover physically and financially.