What Is Premises Liability?

WPremises liability legally holds property owners or occupiers responsible for keeping their environment safe for visitors. Whether it’s a private home, commercial building, or public space, property owners are expected to address hazards promptly or warn visitors of potential dangers.

If unsafe conditions result in an injury, the property owner becomes liable for the harm caused. This liability hinges on the owner’s duty of care.

Common premises liability cases include:

• Slip and fall accidents
• Inadequate security
• Dog bites
• Swimming pool injuries
• Unsafe stairs or walkways
• Falling objects

Key Elements of Premises Liability

1. Duty of Care

This is owed by the owner of the property to the person injured. This duty varies on the status of the visitor:

• Invitees, such as a customer in a store
• Licensee, such as a guest

Note: Generally, property owners owe limited duty of care to trespassers, except in certain situations, such as when children are involved.

2. Hazardous Condition

There was a dangerous condition on the property that the owner knew or should have known about.

3. Failure to Act

The owner failed to fix the hazard, adequately warn visitors, or otherwise act reasonably to prevent harm.

4. Causation and Damages

The unsafe condition directly caused the injury, leading to damages like medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

When Is a Property Owner Liable?

Liability depends on whether the property owner acted reasonably in maintaining their premises. For instance:

• Did the owner regularly inspect the property for hazards?
• Were repairs made in a timely manner?
• Were appropriate warnings provided for known dangers, such as a “Caution: Wet Floor” sign?

If the property owner fails to meet these obligations, they may be held liable for the injuries you sustained on their premises.

Statistics on Premises Liability Cases

• The National Floor Safety Institute revealed slip and fall accidents remain the most common premises liability claims, accounting for over 1 million emergency room visits annually in the U.S.
• The average slip-and-fall settlement is around $15,000 to $45,000.
• Over 50% of premises liability cases involve incidents occurring at retail establishments or restaurants.

These statistics underscore the importance of pursuing legal action if you’ve been injured due to a property owner’s negligence.

How Premises Liability Lawyers Can Help

A premises liability lawyer offers critical support in several ways:

Thorough investigation

An experienced premises liability attorney will investigate the circumstances of your accident. They can gather evidence such as security footage, eyewitness statements, and maintenance records to build a strong case.

Establishing negligence

Property owners are legally obligated to address hazards. A skilled attorney will determine if the owner’s negligence caused your injury by proving they knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to act.

Negotiating with insurance companies

Insurance companies would always try to minimize the amount they pay for injuries. A premises liability attorney will handle all communication, ensuring you aren’t pressured into accepting a low settlement.

Maximizing your compensation

Whether it’s for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or future rehabilitation costs, your attorney will make sure that you’re well-compensated.

Representation in court

If both parties cannot reach a fair settlement, your lawyer files a premises liability lawsuit and represents you in court.

Need immediate legal advice?

Why Choose Sweet Lawyers for Your Premises Liability Case?

At Sweet Lawyers, we combine a compassionate approach with aggressive advocacy, ensuring you feel supported at every step while we handle the complexities of your case.

Comprehensive Legal Support

Our attorneys are well-versed in personal injury law, focusing on premises liability cases such as slip-and-fall incidents. We offer a 100% free, confidential consultation to discuss the specifics of your case and determine the best course of action.

Proven track record

With over 40 years of combined experience, we have successfully handled numerous personal injury cases, including slip and fall accidents. Our dedication to excellence made us one of the “Best Law Firms of America” in 2024.

No Fees Unless We Win

We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will only pay us once we successfully recover compensation for you.

24/7 Availability

Understanding that accidents can occur at any time, our team can assist you 24/7. Whether you prefer to call, email, or text, we are here to provide the support you need when you need it most.

Client-Centered Approach

At Sweet Lawyers, we prioritize your well-being and peace of mind. We take the time to explain your options thoroughly and keep you informed throughout the legal process. We will alleviate the stress associated with legal proceedings. That way, you can focus on your recovery.

Common Questions About Premises Liability Cases

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

Do not let an injury caused by someone else’s negligence derail your life. Contact our experienced premises liability attorneys today for a free consultation. Leave the legal complexities to us while you focus on recovery.

Your safety matters. Your justice matters. Let Sweet Lawyers help you.