Premises liability is a branch of personal injury law that holds property owners accountable for injuries that occur due to unsafe conditions on their premises. Whether in a store, an apartment complex, or a parking lot, property owners have a duty to maintain a safe environment. If they fail to do so and someone is injured, they may be legally responsible for damages. Common premises liability cases include slip and falls, trip and falls, inadequate security leading to assaults, falling objects, and unsafe stairways. Liability can be assigned to various property owners, including businesses, landlords, homeowners, and even government entities. To prove a claim, the injured party must establish that the owner had a duty of care, breached that duty by failing to address a known hazard, that the negligence directly caused the injury, and that damages occurred as a result.
Premises liability cases can be challenging, as property owners and insurers often dispute claims, arguing that they were unaware of the hazard, blaming the victim, or suggesting pre-existing conditions caused the injury. Successfully pursuing a claim requires strong evidence, such as security footage, witness statements, and maintenance records. If injured on someone else’s property, victims should immediately report the incident, document the hazard, gather witness information, seek medical attention, and consult an attorney. Legal representation is crucial, as premises liability cases often involve complex negotiations and litigation. If you or a loved one has been injured due to unsafe property conditions, the Marc Lopez Law Firm can help assess your case and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
