Premises Liability

Types of Premises Liability Claims:

Slip, Trip, and Fall Accidents:
The most common form of premises liability, occurring due to wet floors, icy walkways, broken stairs, loose carpeting, uneven flooring, or other dangerous walking surfaces.

Defective or Dangerous Conditions:
Includes faulty railings, collapsed ceilings, loose tiles, exposed wiring, or any structural defect that creates an unreasonable risk of harm.

Negligent Security:
Occurs when a property owner fails to provide adequate security in areas known for crime, leading to assaults, robberies, or other criminal acts. Often seen in apartment complexes, parking garages, or hotels.

Elevator and Escalator Accidents:
Faulty maintenance or defective parts can lead to sudden stops, entrapments, or drops, often resulting in serious injury.

Swimming Pool Accidents:
These include drownings or slip and fall accidents due to lack of supervision, absence of barriers, or unsafe pool equipment.

Falling Merchandise:
Often occurs in retail environments when improperly stacked or shelved goods fall on patrons.

Toxic Exposure:
Includes exposure to mold, carbon monoxide, asbestos, lead paint, or other hazardous substances present on the property.

Dog Bites or Animal Attacks:
In some jurisdictions, dog owners or property owners can be held liable if their animals injure visitors—especially if the animal has a history of aggressive behavior.

Fire and Electrical Injuries:
Includes burns, smoke inhalation, and electrical shock due to code violations, faulty wiring, or lack of functioning smoke detectors.

Construction Site Hazards:
Injuries sustained due to unsafe or improperly secured construction zones, even by pedestrians walking near the area.

Common Causes of Premises Liability Injuries:
→ Failure to clean or remove known hazards (e.g., spills, snow, or ice)
→ Poor lighting in stairwells or parking lots
→ Failure to fix or warn about broken railings, potholes, or loose flooring
→ Lack of routine inspections or maintenance
→ Failure to adhere to building codes or fire regulations
→ Unsecured rugs, wires, or merchandise displays
→ Inadequate security personnel or surveillance in high-risk areas

Common Injuries in Premises Liability Cases:
→ Fractures and broken bones
→ Spinal cord injuries and herniated discs
→ Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or concussions
→ Lacerations and bruising
→ Burns from fire or chemical exposure
→ Sprains and torn ligaments
→ Respiratory illness from mold or toxic exposure
→ Emotional trauma, especially in assault or attack cases

Premises liability law is complex and fact-specific, hinging on the nature of the hazard, the status of the injured party, and the conduct of the property owner. These cases often involve disputes over notice, maintenance practices, and foreseeability. Successful claims demand a thorough investigation, careful legal analysis, and the ability to prove negligence and causation. Whether a person is injured in a supermarket, an apartment building, a sidewalk, or a workplace, premises liability law exists to ensure property owners are held accountable for maintaining safe environments and compensating those harmed by their inaction.