This type of case usually involves a single event that causes serious injury or death to a number of people. Examples include airplane crashes, building collapses, chemical leaks, factory explosions, and train derailment. As such, all victims generally share the same concerns for proving liability and negligence as normally one event caused all injuries or deaths. In these times of grief, an objective and professional party such as a lawyer is generally better equipped to handle the investigation and any subsequent discussions and negotiations with the negligent party. For additional tips, please view the Victim’s Guide on this page for more suggestions from the Florida Bar on how to prepare and deal with such cases.
Understandably, these cases gather immediate media attention and coverage. Likewise, insurance companies and government officials are usually quick to be on the scene and begin their respective investigation. Your and/or the rights of your family members should be protected at this time. A thorough analysis of the case, the cause of the disaster and all sources of insurance coverage should be examined before any settlement discussions are held.
You may be entitled to compensation if you were injured while you occupy the land, building, or property of another party and your injury is the result of a dangerous condition contained on that land, building, or property. A common example of premise liability is the case of a customer slipping and falling on the floor of a store that was wet. The law provides that an owner of property is charged with maintaining that property in a reasonably safe manner so that a visitor would not be injured upon the property when the property is open to the public or in which it is foreseeable that a member of the public would enter the property. Failing to adequately maintain the safety of the area will result in the owner of the property being held accountable to pay for the injuries that the property may cause to others.
You may seek compensation for a personal injury suffered while using a consumer or commercial product as it was intended. The basis for making such a claim depends on the unique facts for each case.