Clients often ask, “What is the slip and fall statute of limitations in Florida?” because they are unsure of the deadline for filing suit, its exceptions, and how it applies to their case. An experienced Farah & Farah personal injury lawyer understands the statutes of limitations in slip and fall cases and will ensure your suit is filed on time so you have a chance for compensation and justice.
You must file a slip and fall lawsuit in Florida within the time set by the statute of limitations or risk losing your chance at compensation. Under Florida law, you must file your claim within two years from the accident date.
Some exceptions grant you more time, but there is no guarantee a judge will find your case fits these exceptions. Our experienced Florida slip and fall lawyers at Farah & Farah will file your lawsuit on time and meet other critical deadlines. You face a lot of stress after an injury, but you’ll get through this, and our attorneys can help.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations is the law that imposes the deadline for filing a lawsuit. It varies by type of claim and from state to state. Unless you meet an exception in the law or recognized by the courts, you cannot collect compensation if you miss the statute of limitations.
Exceptions to the Two-Year Slip and Fall Statute of Limitations in Florida
Under certain circumstances in Florida, the clock for filing a slip and fall lawsuit stops running. In effect, this gives you more time to file your lawsuit. Exceptions to the Florida statute of limitations include the following:
- If a minor is a slip and fall victim, the statute of limitations doesn’t start running until their 18th birthday.
- If a person is incapacitated, the statute of limitations starts running when the incapacitation ends, but no longer than seven years after the accident.
- If the defendant left Florida, hid within the state, or used a false name to avoid your lawsuit, the statute of limitations starts running when you can identify and notify them.
Don’t take chances with the statute of limitations for a slip and fall in Florida. You may feel you have more time because your case may fit one of the exceptions. However, there is no guarantee a judge will agree. Partner with a Farah & Farah Florida slip and fall lawyer so we can help you build a strong case within statutory limits and argue for maximum compensation.
Florida Slip and Fall on Government Property Statute of Limitations
The Florida statute of limitations for a slip and fall on government property is three years. The process for suing a government agency differs from other cases, so you need a skilled attorney to help you navigate your case. Our Farah & Farah personal injury attorneys have decades of combined experience handling claims against individuals and government agencies. Put our experience to work for you.
Florida Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations
If your loved one died due to a slip and fall in Florida, you have two years to file your claim. For wrongful death lawsuits, the statute of limitations starts running on the date of death, not on the date of the accident.
Spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents can sue for wrongful death in Florida. The deceased’s estate can also file a claim.Â
If your loved one died from a slip and fall due to someone else’s negligence, contact our Farah & Farah Florida wrongful death attorneys. We understand how hard it is to deal with the death of a loved one, and our lawyers will treat you with the kindness, dignity, and respect you deserve while also tenaciously pursuing justice and compensation on your behalf.
What Type of Evidence Is Needed for a Slip and Fall Claim?
Several types of evidence can help bolster your claim that a property owner, property manager, or other party was negligent and caused your slip and fall injuries. Evidence critical to your case must be collected quickly to meet the statute of limitations. Such evidence may include the following:
- Pictures and video of the area where you were injured and the hazard that caused your fall.
- Witness statements about your fall or the hazard.
- Evidence of previous slip and fall or other incidents at the property.
- Medical records and testimony from doctors tying your injuries directly to your fall.
- Medical bills, pay stubs showing lost wages, and proof of other expenses and losses stemming from your injury.
One of the challenging aspects of slip and fall lawsuits is that the property owner could erase video footage, fix the hazard after the accident, or tell employees not to cooperate with investigators. Our Farah & Farah Florida premises liability lawyers work with experienced and skilled investigators to collect the best evidence to support your claim.
How Long Can a Slip and Fall Accident Take To Settle?
Every slip and fall case is unique, and a settlement can take a few months to more than a year. It depends on the circumstances, the quality of your evidence, the willingness of the other party to negotiate fairly, and the skill of your attorney.
Accepting a quick settlement offer may not be in your best interests. For example, if you injured your back, you may not know its impact on your future earnings or medical costs for several months.
The other party’s insurance company may stall your case, hoping you give up or miss the statute of limitations. They may also negotiate in bad faith, hoping you just want it all to be over.
 Our Farah & Farah slip and fall attorneys will support you every step of the way and fight to get you an offer that is in your best interests. If we can’t settle, we will file your formal lawsuit within the statute of limitations so you don’t miss your chance at compensation.
How Can Farah & Farah Help You After a Slip and Fall Accident?
With a statute of limitations of only two years for Florida slip and fall cases, you need an experienced personal injury law firm to help you deal with your injuries and navigate your case through the legal system. Our Farah & Farah Florida slip and fall attorneys can do the following:
- Find a doctor to treat you and document your injuries.
- Investigate and gather evidence.
- Deal with the insurance company and hospital paperwork.
- Negotiate a fair settlement.
- Prepare you for depositions or court hearings.
- If we cannot reach a fair settlement, file your case within the statute of limitations.
- Represent you at trial.
Our accomplished Farah & Farah attorneys have in-depth knowledge of Florida law and a solid commitment to helping those who need it most. We’ve collected over $2 billion for our clients, and our case results are no accident.
Contact Our Slip and Fall Attorneys for a Free Case Review
Hiring an attorney immediately after your accident is essential, so you don’t have to worry about questions such as, “What is the slip and fall statute of limitations in Florida?” At Farah & Farah, we’ve been protecting people like you and your family since 1979. We’re successful because we understand the law and know that compassion, respect, and hard work are how you win.
Call Farah & Farah at (877) 245-6707, or contact us for a free case review. We handle cases on a contingent fee basis, using our resources to fight on your behalf and only collecting if we win. We are proud of client testimonials that note our communication, commitment, and ability to get results.
