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What to Do If You Are Injured at a Holiday Party in Florida

If you are injured at a holiday party, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your health and your legal rights. This article provides information on party host liability and how to file a premises liability claim. 

The holiday season is a time for celebration, but unfortunately, it can also bring unexpected accidents. Injuries at holiday parties are more common than you might think and can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. A recent study found that emergency room visits tend to increase during the holiday season due to a variety of factors, including more social gatherings, overindulgence in alcohol, and travel.

If you are injured at a holiday party in Florida, understanding your rights and the steps to take is crucial. In this blog, our Florida personal injury attorneys provide important information on the legal liability of party hosts and what to do if you are injured at a social or work event this holiday season.

Have you been injured in a slip-and-fall or trip-and-fall accident at a social or work holiday event in Florida? The experienced injury attorneys at Avera & Smith are here to help. We have over 70 years of experience helping accident victims hold negligent parties accountable. We can help you navigate the insurance claim process and recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you believe you have a premises liability case, contact us immediately at 800-654-4659 for a free consultation.

Common types of injuries at holiday parties

Holiday parties often involve large gatherings, decorations, food, and alcohol, all of which can contribute to accidents. Common injuries include:

• Slips and falls: Spills, poorly lit areas, or wet walkways can cause guests to slip and injure themselves.
• Trip hazards: Decorations, extension cords, or uneven flooring may lead to trips and falls.
• Alcohol-related injuries: Overconsumption of alcohol can result in accidents, including falls or altercations.
• Burns or cuts: Handling hot food, candles, or sharp utensils can lead to injuries.
• Dog Bites: Pets may become agitated or aggressive in crowded environments.

How these injuries may qualify as a premises liability claim

Under Florida’s premises liability laws, property owners have a duty to maintain a safe environment for their guests. If the property owner’s negligence contributed to your injury, you may have grounds for a claim. To establish a premises liability case, you must prove:

1. The property owner had a duty to provide a reasonably safe environment.
2. The owner failed to meet this duty by neglecting a hazardous condition.
3. The hazardous condition directly caused your injury.

For example, if you trip and break your ankle due to an extension cord that was difficult to see due to a poorly lit hallway, the property owner could be held liable.

Florida’s comparative negligence rule

Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.

Example: Imagine you fell down a staircase at a party due to a broken handrail, but you were also holding a drink and not paying attention. The court may determine that the homeowner is 60% responsible for the broken handrail, but you are 40% responsible for your inattention. In this case, you could recover 60% of your damages. If you were found to be 51% or more at fault, however, you would not be eligible for compensation.

5 steps to take if you are injured at a holiday party

If you are injured at a holiday party, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights.

1. Seek immediate medical attention: Your health is the top priority. Visit a doctor or emergency room right away to document your injuries.
2. Document the scene: If you are able, take photos and videos of the accident scene. Capture details that contributed to the injury, such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, debris, or poor lighting. Also, collect contact information from any witnesses.
3. Report the incident: Notify the property owner or event organizer of the incident. Request their insurance information.
4. Avoid making statements at the scene: Be careful of what you say in the immediate aftermath of the incident. Avoid admitting fault or downplaying your injury. These types of statements can be used against you.
5. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney: Premises liability cases can be complex. You will be required to prove negligence on behalf of the property owner. Therefore, having legal representation is critical.

Injured at a holiday party in Florida?

Call 800-654-4659 for a free case review

If you’ve been injured at a holiday party, the personal injury attorneys at Avera & Smith are here to help. With extensive experience in premises liability cases, our team understands the intricacies of Florida’s laws and how to build a strong case on your behalf. We will:

• Investigate the circumstances of your injury.
• Gather evidence to prove negligence.
• Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement.
• Represent you in court if necessary.

At Avera & Smith, we are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact us today for a free case review to discuss your options and get the legal support you need.

Take the first step. Request a free case review through our online form or call 800-654-4659 to speak with one of our attorneys.