Premises liability law ensures your safety when you are on someone elseโs property. Owners and managers of property are responsible for maintaining their property to protect you from accidents, injuries, or criminal activity while you are there.
This law protects people from harm and helps them pay for medical bills, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other expenses related to an injury suffered on someone elseโs property.
Inadequate building security is a building ownerโs duty to secure reasonable access to the buildings. If someone breaks in (or simply walks in through an unlocked door) and assaults or otherwise harms someone inside the building, the victim may have a premises liability case against the building owner.
In addition, swimming pool accidents occur when someone is harmed in an unsupervised and unsecured pool. For this reason, most states and municipalities have laws and ordinances requiring that swimming pools have a fence around them, often with a locking gate. A pool owner may be liable if someone leaves their pool open and unguarded.
You should feel safe on someone elseโs property. If the unthinkable happens, you need well-versed premises liability lawyers to hold the at-fault property owner accountable and secure the compensation you need to get back on your feet.
The North Carolina premises liability lawyers at Daggett Shuler are here to help the injured people of the Triad community. If youโve been hurt or harmed in an accident through no fault of your own, you need an experienced personal injury law firm that will be in your corner and protect your rights every step of the way. You can depend on us.
Common causes of premises liability injuries include a range of hazardous conditions that can lead to accidents and harm, such as:
Falling Objects: Items such as tools, equipment, or merchandise that are not properly secured can fall from shelves, overhead storage, or construction sites, potentially causing severe injuries to individuals below.
Broken Walkways: Cracked, uneven, or otherwise damaged walkways can create tripping hazards. Such defects in pedestrian paths can lead to slips, trips, and falls, resulting in injury.
Improper Signage: Lack of or inadequate warning signs about potential hazardsโsuch as wet floors, construction zones, or low ceilingsโcan prevent individuals from taking necessary precautions and may contribute to accidents.
Debris, Ice, Oil, and Other Hazards on Walkways: Accumulations of debris, ice, oil spills, or other substances on walkways can make surfaces slippery or obstructed, increasing the risk of slips, falls, and other injuries.
Slip and Fall Accidents: Slippery or unstable surfaces in various locationsโsuch as on the premises of a business, in parking lots, or on sidewalksโcan cause individuals to lose their footing and can lead to injuries from falls.
Addressing and mitigating these hazards is crucial for property owners to ensure visitors' safety and reduce the risk of premises liability claims.
If youโve been injured on someone elseโs property, you have several rights and potential avenues for seeking redress, depending on the circumstances of your injury and the specifics of the property involved. Hereโs a general overview of your rights:
Each case is unique, and the specifics of your rights can vary based on the jurisdiction and circumstances surrounding the incident. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help you understand and assert your rights effectively.
Common types of personal injuries that occur on someone elseโs property can vary widely depending on the nature of the property and the specific hazards present. Here are some frequently encountered types of personal injury:
These occur when a person slips, trips, or falls due to hazardous conditions like wet floors, uneven surfaces, or obstructions. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and head injuries.
Like slips and falls, these injuries result from tripping over objects or uneven surfaces. Examples include tripping over a loose rug or a broken sidewalk.
Injuries caused by objects that fall from shelves, scaffolding, or ceilings. These can result in severe trauma, including head injuries, fractures, and cuts.
Injuries resulting from bites or attacks by pets or animals on the property. These can lead to puncture wounds, infections, and psychological trauma.
Falls from ladders or scaffolding can occur on construction sites, retail stores, or other settings. Injuries can be severe, including fractures, spinal injuries, and head trauma.
Injuries caused by exposure to hot surfaces, chemicals, or electrical hazards. These can occur in restaurants, industrial sites, or private properties.
Injuries that occur due to unsafe conditions at construction sites, such as falling debris, faulty equipment, or inadequate safety measures. Common injuries include lacerations, fractures, and crush injuries.
These can include slips and falls around the pool, drowning accidents, or injuries from faulty pool equipment. They often result in serious injuries or fatalities.
Injuries resulting from malfunctioning or improperly maintained elevators and escalators. These can include falls, crush injuries, and entrapment.
Injuries from exposure to hazardous chemicals or substances on the property, such as asbestos, lead, or mold. This can result in respiratory issues, skin conditions, or other health problems.
Insufficient security measures on the property can result in injuries resulting from criminal acts, such as assaults or robberies.
Each type of injury has specific considerations and legal implications, and liability can depend on various factors, including property maintenance, safety protocols, and the nature of the hazard. If youโve suffered an injury on someone elseโs property, consulting with a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue appropriate compensation.
As a personal injury victim on someone elseโs premises, you may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the nature and extent of your injuries. Here are the common types of compensation you might seek:
Compensation for all medical costs related to your injury. This includes:
Emergency Room Visits: Costs of initial treatment and hospitalization.
Surgeries and Procedures: Expenses for necessary medical procedures and surgeries.
Medications: Costs of prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications.
Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other rehabilitative services.
Future Medical Costs: Anticipated future medical expenses for ongoing treatment or long-term care.
Compensation for income lost due to your inability to work while recovering from your injuries. This includes:
Short-Term Loss: Wages lost during your initial recovery period.
Long-Term Loss: If your injury affects your ability to work long-term or permanently.
If your injury results in a permanent disability that impacts your ability to earn income in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for reduced earning capacity.
Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you have endured as a result of the injury. This includes:
Physical Pain: Chronic pain, discomfort, and inconvenience resulting from the injury.
Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, and other psychological impacts.
Compensation for the injury's impact on your relationship with your spouse or partner. This can include loss of companionship, affection, and support.
If personal property was damaged or destroyed in the incident, you may be entitled to reimbursement or replacement costs. This can include damaged clothing, electronics, or other personal items.
Reimbursement for incidental costs incurred due to the injury. These can include travel expenses for medical appointments, home modifications to accommodate disability, or hiring help for household tasks.
In cases where the property ownerโs conduct was particularly egregious or malicious, you might be awarded punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
In some cases, you may be able to recover legal fees and other costs associated with pursuing your claim, mainly if your case results in a settlement or favorable judgment.
Each case is unique, and the types and amounts of compensation you can seek will depend on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the specific circumstances surrounding the incident. Consulting with a Daggett Shuler personal injury attorney can help you understand the full range of compensation you might be entitled to and assist in pursuing a claim.
Hiring a premises liability lawyer can be crucial for effectively handling your case and ensuring you receive fair compensation. Here are several reasons why engaging a lawyer with expertise in premises liability is beneficial:
Knowledge and Experience: Premises liability law can be complex, involving various legal principles and nuances. An experienced premises liability lawyer understands the intricacies of these cases and can navigate the legal system effectively.
Accurate Evaluation of Your Case: A lawyer can assess the merits of your case, including determining whether the property owner was negligent and whether you have a strong compensation claim.
Evidence Collection: Establishing liability often requires gathering substantial evidence, such as accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and surveillance footage. A lawyer can efficiently collect and preserve this evidence to support your claim.
Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. A skilled lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Litigation Experience: A lawyer can represent you in court if your case cannot be settled through negotiation. They are experienced in preparing for trial, presenting evidence, and making persuasive arguments to a judge or jury.
Knowledge of Local Laws: Premises liability laws vary by state and locality. A lawyer familiar with the laws in your jurisdiction will ensure that your case is handled according to local regulations and procedures.
Understanding of Damages: A lawyer can help you identify all potential damages you might be entitled to, including those you might not have considered, such as future medical costs or loss of quality of life.
Reducing Your Stress: Handling a personal injury case can be stressful and time-consuming. A lawyer takes on the legal burden, allowing you to focus on your recovery and well-being.
Access to Resources: Lawyers often have access to expert witnesses, investigators, and other resources that can strengthen your case and provide additional support.
Legal Advice and Guidance: From understanding your rights and options to making strategic decisions throughout the process, a lawyer provides crucial advice and guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Maximizing Compensation: An experienced lawyer will ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and losses, including negotiating for higher settlements or presenting a strong case in court if necessary.
No Fee Unless We Win: Daggett Shulerโs premises liability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win your case.
Hiring a premises liability lawyer helps ensure you have a knowledgeable advocate, increases your chances of a successful outcome, and helps you navigate your case.
At Daggett Shuler, weโre proud to be your local advocates, committed to serving the injured people in our Triad community with dedication and compassion. Our experienced premises liability lawyers understand the unique challenges faced by our neighbors and are here to offer personalized support throughout your legal journey. Whether youโre dealing with injuries from a slip and fall, unsafe property conditions, or any other premises-related issue, our team is ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
As a trusted part of the Triad community, we stand by your side and ensure your rights are protected at every step. Weโll provide you with the care and respect you deserve.
Our attorneys have helped clients with legal support through workersโ compensation, Social Security Disability, personal injury, car accident claims, and more. Our clients know that we stand beside them when they are going through a difficult time. Read reviews from real clients, and if you had a positive experience with Daggett Shuler Law, please consider leaving a review.
Contact the attorneys at Daggett Shuler today for a free, no-obligation consultation. You can depend on us.