Facts are objective, verifiable details (e.g., “The wet floor had no warning sign”). Opinions are subjective interpretations (e.g., “They were being careless”). Stick to observable facts: what you saw, heard, or can prove with evidence. Opinions can undermine your credibility. Let the collected facts—photos, documents, witness statements—lead to the logical conclusion about fault without you needing to state it as an opinion.

Proactive risk management is key. Implement regular safety inspections and maintenance schedules. Train all employees thoroughly on safety procedures and customer interaction policies. Purchase adequate general liability insurance and understand its coverage. Use clear signage for hazards and waivers for high-risk activities. Document everything, including incident reports and training records. Finally, foster a culture of safety where employees feel responsible for identifying and reporting potential hazards immediately.

It means the person bringing the claim (the plaintiff) has the legal responsibility to prove that another specific party (the defendant) is at fault. You cannot simply show you were injured or suffered a loss; you must connect that harm directly to the wrongful actions or negligence of the defendant. The burden of proof rests entirely on you. If you cannot clearly identify and prove the other party was responsible, your claim will fail, regardless of how severe your damages are.