How to protect your business and make your premises a safer place for customers
Posted By Darrigo & Diaz
If you’re a business owner, you probably already know that if a person slips and falls at your business, you’re a prime target for a lawsuit. And premises liability cases are bad for business.
Customer slip-and-fall incidents account for about 10 percent of small business claims at an average price tag of $30,000, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. If the customer files a lawsuit, which happens about 35 percent of the time in general liability claims, that amount can easily increase to $75,000 or more.
Fortunately, there are steps that business owners can take to protect their business and customers. At a minimum, consider buying a basic commercial general liability insurance policy. In the long run, it could end up saving you tens of thousands of dollars. After you get insurance, here are some best practices to prevent most workplace injuries and expensive liability claims:
- Inspect. You and your employees need to diligently monitor potentially unsafe conditions — in both individual workspaces and the property at large. Constant vigilance might sound like a productivity killer, but all it really means is being more aware of your surroundings. This way, any potential liabilities can be detected beforeemployees or customers discover them the hard way.
- Correct. If an unsafe condition is discovered (or even suspected), it must be corrected immediately. Neither you nor your employees should assume that someone else will clean up the spill or flatten the entryway mat. Establish clear policies and procedures so your employees know what to do when it comes to dangerous conditions.
- Warn. If any unsafe conditions can’t be corrected immediately, you need to display a conspicuous warning sign so customers and employees can avoid the hazard until it’s fixed. The prominent use of “wet floor” signs in areas that have been mopped during business hours is a good example of a prudent warning.
When it comes to premises liability, the bottom line is this: If it’s your business, it’s your responsibility. Stay alert for potential dangers, and correct problems as soon as they crop up.
If you or your loved one has been injured in a slip and fall, it is crucial to use an experienced personal injury attorney with an understanding of complex regulations and Florida tort and liability law. Board Certified Attorney Nadine Diaz, and the law offices of Darrigo & Diaz, has a complete Personal Injury team of lawyers, investigators, and paralegals ready to defend your rights and get you compensation for your injuries and lost wages. You can schedule a free appointment now to discuss your case and there are no fees or costs unless we win a settlement for you.
To get free answers to your questions, or to schedule complimentary consultation with a D&D Personal Injury Attorney in Tampa, call toll-free 813-877-5548.
