What Kind of Evidence Might Strengthen My Premises Liability Claim?

Accidents can happen anywhere, and when they occur on someone else’s property due to hazardous conditions, they can result in serious injuries and emotional distress. Fortunately, if you were injured on someone else’s property in Florida and believe it was due to their negligence, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim.

Building a strong case requires compelling evidence to prove liability, however. Read on to explore the types of evidence that can strengthen your premises liability claim and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

1. Photographs and Videos

Visual evidence is invaluable in premises liability claims. Capture photographs or videos of the accident scene, focusing on the hazardous condition that caused your injury.

Take wide-angle shots to establish the context of the accident, as well as close-up images to depict specific details. Photograph any defective equipment, inadequate lighting, slippery surfaces, broken handrails, or other hazards. These visual records can provide concrete proof of the dangerous condition and the negligence that led to your injury.

2. Incident Reports and Other Documentation

Reporting the accident and documenting the incident as soon as possible is crucial. If the accident occurred at a business or commercial establishment, file an incident report with the property owner or manager.

This document should outline the details of the accident, including the date, time, location, and a description of the hazardous condition. Request a copy of the report for your records and to provide to your attorney as evidence.

3. Witness Statements

Eyewitness testimonies can greatly strengthen your premises liability claim. Obtain statements from individuals who witnessed the accident or were present shortly afterward. These witnesses can provide crucial accounts of what happened, corroborating your version of events and establishing negligence on the part of the property owner.

4. Maintenance and Inspection Records

If the accident resulted from a failure to maintain the property properly, maintenance and inspection records can be compelling evidence. Request these records from the property owner or manager to demonstrate a pattern of negligence or lack of upkeep. Examples may include records of repairs, maintenance schedules, cleaning logs, or inspections.

Such documentation can help establish that the property owner knew of the hazard or should have known of it and failed to take appropriate steps to address it.

5. Expert Opinions

In some cases, expert opinions can provide a significant boost to your premises liability claim. Consulting experts, such as engineers, architects, or safety professionals, can help evaluate the hazardous condition and establish its connection to the property owner’s negligence.

These experts can analyze the evidence, assess the building codes and regulations, and provide a professional opinion on the property owner’s duty of care, which can lend credibility to your claim and support your case.

6. Medical Records

In premises liability claims, it is crucial to establish the extent of your injuries and their connection to the accident. Keep detailed records of your medical treatment, including hospital visits, diagnostic tests, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation. Medical records serve as vital evidence to prove the severity of your injuries and the associated medical expenses.

Discuss Your Claim with a Premises Liability Attorney in Stuart

Were you seriously hurt on someone else’s property? If you want to hold them accountable, turn to the resourceful team at Donaldson & Weston for guidance.

Each of our lawyers is paid through contingency fee contracts, which means we charge no money upfront. Call 772-266-5555 or fill out the Contact Form on our website to schedule a free initial consultation with a premises liability lawyer in Stuart.