Matthew Mincone | April 12, 2025 | Tampa Personal Injury Blog
Visiting the Florida Aquarium in Tampa can be an enjoyable experience, but accidents can still happen. If you suffer an injury while on aquarium premises, you may be wondering about your legal options. In Florida, premises liability laws say property owners must keep their spaces safe for visitors. Understanding these laws and how they apply to your case can help you determine whether you have grounds for a personal injury claim.
Premises Liability and the Florida Aquarium
Premises liability means property owners must keep their places safe for visitors. If a business or organization does not comply and someone gets hurt, the court may hold them responsible for damages. The Florida Aquarium, as a public attraction, has a duty to ensure the safety of its guests.
Common Causes of Injuries at the Florida Aquarium
Several types of hazards can lead to injuries at the Florida Aquarium, including:
- Slip and fall accidents: Wet or uneven surfaces, poorly maintained walkways, or spills can cause visitors to slip and fall.
- Falling objects: Displays, decorations, or equipment that are not secure can fall and injure guests.
- Animal-related incidents: While rare, interactions with marine life or exhibits could result in injuries.
- Negligent security: Insufficient security measures may lead to assaults, theft, or other harm.
If your injury resulted from the negligence of the Florida Aquarium’s staff or management, you may have a premises liability claim.
Proving Negligence in a Premises Liability Claim
To succeed in a premises liability claim, you must show that:
- The Florida Aquarium owed you a duty of care as a visitor.
- The Aquarium breached this duty by failing to maintain a safe environment.
- The breach directly caused your injury.
- You suffered damages as a result of the injury (e.g., medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering).
Photos of the hazard, witness statements, medical records, and incident reports can help your case.
Florida’s Comparative Negligence Law and Your Claim
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are partially responsible for your injury, your compensation gets reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are more than 50% at fault, you may not be able to recover damages.
For example, if you slipped on a wet floor but ignored warning signs, the court may find you responsible, reducing your potential compensation.
Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim
Under Florida law, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Potential Compensation for Your Injuries
If your claim is successful, you may recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to your injury.
- Pain and suffering: Physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Other damages for additional losses, such as transportation costs or home modifications, may be necessary.
Find Out Your Legal Options if You Get Injured at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa
Navigating a premises liability claim can be complex, especially when dealing with a large institution like the Florida Aquarium. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and negotiate a fair settlement.
If you get hurt at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa, do not hesitate to explore your legal options. Consulting an experienced personal injury attorney can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve while holding negligent parties accountable. Filing a claim within the legal timeframe is crucial, so take action as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Contact the Tampa Personal Injury Lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Tampa, FL, contact our skilled personal injury lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
We proudly serve Hillsborough County and its surrounding areas:
Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers
1925 E 6th Ave Ste 10
Tampa, FL 33605
(813) 800-0810
About The Author
Attorney Matthew Mincone is the founder of Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers. He earned his law degree while attending night programs in New York and is licensed to practice in Florida. With over 15 years of legal experience, Matthew focuses on personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents involving cars, commercial trucks, and motorcycles. His commitment to personally handling each case ensures clients receive dedicated representation. Click here to view some of the remarkable case results that Matthew has successfully achieved.
Location: Tampa, FL