Hurt at Denny’s in Miami? Your Legal Rights After a Restaurant Accident

If you’ve been seriously injured at a Denny’s restaurant in Miami—due to a slip and fall, unsafe seating, a parking lot accident, or other hazard—you may be entitled to compensation under Florida premises liability laws. These cases can be complex, especially when the restaurant is part of a larger shopping center or franchise operation. The personal injury attorneys at Wolfson & Leon have over 60 years of experience helping injury victims recover compensation. Call 305-285-1115 for a free consultation today.

With its beaches, nightlife, and international appeal, Miami is one of the busiest tourist destinations in the U.S. According to the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Miami-Dade County welcomed 26.5 million visitors in 2022, significantly increasing foot traffic in restaurants like Denny’s. High traffic areas are more prone to accidents due to constant wear-and-tear and hurried service conditions.

• 33139 – South Beach / Miami Beach
• 33172 – Dolphin Mall / Sweetwater
• 33176 – Kendall
• 33134 – Coral Gables
• 33131 – Brickell / Downtown Miami
• 33144 – West Miami
• 33180 – Aventura

Denny’s locations often operate 24/7, serving large crowds late into the night when staffing is low and maintenance is inconsistent. Common issues include:

• Crowded walkways and close-set tables
• Spilled food or drinks not promptly cleaned
• Dim lighting in bathrooms and parking lots
• High employee turnover, leading to inconsistent training

1. 3600 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33137
2. 8503 SW 40th St, Miami, FL 33155
3. 199 E 5th St, Hialeah, FL 33010

Injury incidents at restaurants like Denny’s are unfortunately common and often preventable.

• Slips and Falls – Wet floors in dining areas, bathrooms, or entryways
• Trips and Falls – Uneven pavement or crowded furniture layout
• Parking Lot Injuries – Poor lighting, potholes, or pedestrian-vehicle accidents
• Lack of Security – Fights, assaults, or robberies due to inadequate surveillance or staff presence
• Falling Items – Ceiling tiles, improperly mounted TVs, or stacked supplies falling on customers

In one Miami case, a woman tripped over a curled floor mat near the beverage station at a Denny’s. Surveillance footage revealed the hazard had been present for over two hours. She fractured her hip, required surgery, and later won a substantial settlement after proving negligence.

• Sprains, strains, and broken bones
• Back and spinal cord injuries
• Concussions and other head trauma
• Lacerations from broken furniture or glass
• Long-term psychological or emotional distress

• What Can You Be Compensated For?

If you've been injured due to unsafe conditions, you may be eligible for compensation including:

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost wages or future loss of earning ability
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Emotional trauma
• Understanding Florida Premises Liability Laws

Florida’s premises liability laws require property owners and operators (like restaurants) to maintain safe conditions and warn patrons of any hazards they know about—or should reasonably know about.

Florida follows a comparative negligence model, meaning even if you’re partially at fault, but not greater than 50%,you may still be eligible for compensation—though your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

If the Denny’s is in a shopping plaza, liability may extend beyond just the restaurant:

• Denny’s Franchise Owner or Manager
• Parent Franchise Corporation
• Property Owner or Landlord
• Third-party Contractors (janitorial, maintenance)
• Security companies (in negligent security cases)
• Negligeent drivers/owners

Filing a claim after a restaurant accident isn’t always simple. Victims often run into issues such as:

• Denials from insurance companies blaming the victim
• Incomplete or lost surveillance footage
• Witnesses who can’t be found or are uncooperative
• Delays in medical treatment that weaken the claim
• Short statutory deadlines

An experienced attorney can investigate the scene, gather crucial evidence, interview witnesses, obtain medical records, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. They can also help identify all liable parties and calculate the true value of your case—ensuring you don’t settle for less than you deserve.

How much compensation can I get after a Denny’s accident?

It depends on the severity of your injuries and losses. Some cases may settle for a few thousand dollars, while serious injuries can result in six-figure settlements or verdicts.

In most personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit (as of 2023 legislative updates). Delaying may result in losing your right to seek compensation.

Absolutely. If you are physically able, take pictures, report the incident to management, and get contact info from any witnesses. These steps can be crucial in proving your case.

Yes. Under Florida’s modified comparative fault system, you can still recover damages even if you were partially responsible – but not more than 50% - though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured at a Denny’s or any other restaurant in Miami, call Wolfson & Leon today at 305-285-1115 for your free consultation. Our Miami accident attorneys have been defending accident victims in Miami for over 60 years, and we’re ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Don’t wait. Evidence fades. Get answers. Call now.