Premises Liability cases involve an injury suffered because of a condition or defect on the premises of a business or of another individual. “Premises liability” refers to the duty of a property owner to prevent people visiting his property from being hurt. It is the duty of property owners to keep safe property and to warn of any possible dangers. Injuries from defective stairs, gratings, broken steps, slippery floors, inadequate security all can cause serious injuries ranging from broken bones to brain injuries or quadriplegia. When a visitor to another’s property suffers an injury which could have been prevented, premises liability law sets out the responsibility of the proper owner or manager.
The law of premises liability imposes different duties on land owners, depending on the status of the injured person while on the premises. Property owners are obligated to keep their premises safe and secure. They are required to fix hazards and to make sure guests are warned of any dangers. The duty to a person who is there by invitation is generally higher than a person who is there on his own personal business or a trespasser, there without permission at all.
Members of Wolff Ardis, P.C. have experience handling all sorts of premises liability claims, including:
- Slip and Falls, which may occur because a visitor has not been properly warned of a hazard such as water on the floor or uneven pavement.
- Negligent Security. If property is located in an area which may attract crime, it is the owner’s responsibility to provide security. If an attack occurs because there is not adequate security, the property owner can be found liable.
- Swimming Pool Accidents, which may occur because an owner does not protect their pool. When this occurs, the owner may be found liable for any injury that occurs as a result of a visitor’s accidentally getting into the pool.
- School or day care injuries often occur when his surroundings do not meet all safety codes and regulations. The institution is responsible for ensuring the safety of our children, and the school or day care may be found liable for any damages which arise when it is negligent.
- Defective sidewalks. The surfaces of sidewalks and parking lots are often irregular. The property owner is not required to assure that they be perfectly smooth. However, the property owner may be liable when a defect in a sidewalk or parking lot presents an unreasonable risk of harm.
Wolff Ardis, P.C. may be able to help you recover the losses you suffer because of your injuries including medical bills, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. If a person dies because of another’s negligence, the family of the victim may be able to collect losses sustained, and may seek compensation for pain and suffering.
The burden of proving a premises liability injury lies with the injured person. Wolff Ardis, P.C. can conduct an investigation right away to gather the evidence which is critical to successfully prove your claim. The lawyers of Wolff Ardis, P.C. can help you navigate the complicated finger pointing that often occurs between mutual owners, lessees, tenants and insurance companies.