Property owners have a legal obligation to maintain safe conditions for visitors. When they fail to do so and someone is injured, premises liability law comes into play. One common example is a slip-and-fall accident.
What Is Premises Liability?
It’s a legal concept holding property owners responsible for accidents caused by unsafe conditions on their property. This applies to homes, businesses, sidewalks, and even public spaces.
Examples of Hazardous Conditions:
- Wet or slippery floors
- Icy walkways
- Loose rugs or flooring
- Poor lighting
- Broken stairs or handrails
- Uneven pavement
Who Can File a Claim?
Injured parties may be entitled to compensation if:
- They were lawfully on the property (customers, tenants, guests)
- The owner knew or should have known about the danger
- The owner failed to fix or warn about the hazard
Types of Compensation
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
Common Defenses by Property Owners
- Claiming the hazard was obvious and avoidable
- Arguing the victim was trespassing
- Suggesting the injury resulted from the victim’s negligence
What to Do After a Slip-and-Fall
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the accident to the property owner or manager.
- Take photos of the scene and conditions.
- Get witness contact information.
- Consult a personal injury lawyer.
Conclusion
Premises liability laws protect people from unsafe environments. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you have legal options to recover damages.