Miami Applebee’s Injuries: Who’s Liable for Restaurant Accidents?

If you slipped and fell, were hit by a falling sign, or were injured in a parking lot at Applebee’s in Miami, you may be entitled to compensation. These types of accidents are common in busy restaurant environments where safety precautions may be overlooked. Under Florida law, restaurants must keep their premises safe. If they fail to do so and you’re hurt as a result, you may have a legal claim. Call Wolfson & Leon at 305-285-1115 for a free consultation.

Miami's bustling hospitality scene and high foot traffic contribute to a higher likelihood of restaurant-related injuries, especially in tourist areas. Visitors and residents alike frequent chain restaurants like Applebee’s, which can become crowded, fast-paced, and prone to hazards like wet floors, uneven pavement, or poorly secured signs.

• Applebee’s – 3690 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33135
• Applebee’s – 9951 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33174
• Applebee’s – 10000 SW 40th St, Miami, FL 33165

These locations serve high volumes of guests and are surrounded by dense traffic, making them more likely places for accidents to occur.

Restaurant accidents are personal injury incidents that occur due to unsafe conditions on the property. At Applebee’s, this may happen inside the dining area, restrooms, entryways, or in the parking lot.

In busy Miami-area restaurants like Applebee’s, accidents often happen due to preventable hazards. Here are some of the most common types of incidents—and what typically causes them:

• Slip and Falls – Often caused by slippery or unclean floors, such as spilled drinks, wet tile, or freshly mopped surfaces without warning signs.
• Trip and Falls – Linked to uneven flooring, broken tiles, or unsecured mats and rugs, which can catch someone’s foot unexpectedly.
• Parking Lot Injuries – Usually happen due to broken pavement, potholes, or poor lighting that makes hazards difficult to see.
• Falling Signs or Décor – Caused by inadequate maintenance or improper mounting of wall hangings, ceiling fixtures, or promotional materials.
• Injuries from Lack of Warning Signs – If caution signs are missing during cleaning or repair, guests may not be aware of potential hazards, increasing the risk of accidental injury.

Each of these scenarios can lead to serious injuries, and in many cases, the restaurant may be held liable if negligence played a role.

Florida’s premises liability law requires restaurant owners to maintain reasonably safe conditions for guests. When they fail to do this and someone is injured, the business can be held responsible.

In most cases, it’s the Applebee’s franchise owner or operator, though in some cases, property managers or maintenance vendors may also be liable. Proving negligence requires showing that the hazard existed, that the restaurant knew or should have known about it, and that it directly caused your injury.

In a successful claim, injured victims may receive compensation for a variety of damages. These include your medical expenses, lost wages, and future medical treatment if your injury requires ongoing care. You may also be eligible for pain and suffering, especially if your injury causes lasting physical or emotional hardship. Compensation may also cover out-of-pocket costs like travel for medical appointments or mobility devices.

Taking the right steps after an accident can protect both your health and your ability to file a strong legal claim.

1. Get medical attention immediately—even if injuries seem minor.
2. Notify the manager and ensure the incident is recorded.
3. Document the scene with photos and videos of the hazard, your injuries, and surrounding area.
4. Collect witness information from anyone who saw the incident.
5. Speak with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and begin the claims process.

Injuries from restaurant accidents can range from mild to severe. A simple slip on a wet floor can lead to a serious back injury, while an improperly installed sign could fall and cause a head injury. Other frequent injuries include broken bones, twisted ankles, or deep cuts from sharp or broken surfaces. Some victims may suffer long-term damage requiring physical therapy or surgery, while others may experience lasting pain that disrupts their daily life and ability to work.

Evidence like photos, video, witness statements, and the restaurant’s own incident report can help show that a hazard existed and Applebee’s failed to address it in a timely manner.

You typically have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim, under Florida’s revised 2023 statute. Don’t delay—evidence fades over time.

Yes—Florida uses a modified comparative negligence rule. If you're less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, though your compensation may be reduced.

Photos, medical records, witness contact information, surveillance footage (if available), and the incident report are all important. The more documentation, the stronger your case.

If you were seriously hurt in an accident at Applebee’s—whether due to a slip and fall, parking lot hazard, or falling object—you deserve answers and a path to recovery. Let Wolfson & Leon, trusted Miami personal injury lawyers, help you understand your options and pursue the compensation you deserve. We’ll handle the legal work while you focus on healing.

📞 Call 305-285-1115 now for a free and confidential consultation.