Common Types of Premises Liability Accidents
Certain accidents occur due to the unsafe and dangerous conditions of a property. Accidents like this are categorized as premises liability accidents, for which the property owners/managers are. Here, we discuss the most common types of premises liability accidents.
If you’ve had an accident on a property that could have been prevented if the owner had taken the necessary precautions to keep their property safe, then you have the right to file a premise liability case and seek financial compensation. In Los Angeles, you can do this through the help of a Los Angeles premises liability lawyer.
However, before you file a case, you must be well-informed on what kind of accidents count. Here are the most common types of claims:
Slip and Falls
According to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), slips and falls are the principal cause of hospital emergency room visits, accounting for over 8 million cases. These accidents can happen for several reasons, including:
- Spills that are not quickly or properly cleaned
- Loose debris on floors and stairways
- Defective handrails
- Uneven floor surfaces
- Inadequate lighting
Generally, it is the duty of property owners/managers to keep their walkways and stairways safe, and their refusal to do so could make them liable for any accidents that may occur.
Dog Bites
If you’re attacked by a dog on a property, you can hold the property owner liable for your injuries. However, to file a lawsuit, you must be able to establish the following:
- The property owner is knowledgeable about the dog’s presence on the property
- They were or should have been aware of the violent tendencies of the dog
- After a previous attack, they did not take any necessary precautions to prevent the dog from attacking any other people
Elevator Accidents
In buildings with multiple stories, elevators are the primary means of transportation. If they aren’t working in optimal conditions, it could lead to injuries or deaths, for which the property owner can be held liable.
Examples of owner-liable elevator claims include:
- Faulty doors
- Electrocution
- Uncontrolled speed
- Falling into shafts
Swimming Pool Accidents
Swimming pool accidents are another common type of this liability. If you get injured in a pool due to the failure of the owner to keep it safe, then you can file a liability case against them. A pool owner can be held liable for the following swimming pool accidents:
- Drowning
- Lack of supervision
- Defective pool attractions
- Slippery decks
Related Questions
Is Attractive Nuisance Applicable Under Premises Liability Claims?
Yes, some attractive nuisance cases are applicable under liability claims. An attractive nuisance is a legal concept that dictates that a property owner can be held responsible for injuries caused to children by attractive objects on the property. Attractive nuisance consists mostly of water features such as pools and fountains, construction equipment, and playground toys.
What Parties Can This Case Be Filed Against?
Some parties can be charged with this liability case, depending on certain factors, such as who manages the property and the visitor’s status at the time of the injury. After reviewing all these factors, the attorney will decide who to file the suit against. A case can be filed against the following parties:
- Property owner
- Property Manager
- Tenants
- Security Company
What Damages Are Covered in a Premises Liability Case?
Most lawsuits here seek financial compensation for victims of these accidents. This compensation can cover the following damages:
- Medical bills as a result of the injury include future rehabilitation bills
- Lost income as a result of the injury
- Death
- Permanent disfigurement
- Discomfort and pain as a result of the injury
Conclusion
Sustaining injuries as a result of the negligence of other people is not uncommon. If you have suffered an accident on someone else’s property, you need to know if it can be classified as a premise liability accident so that you are eligible for compensation benefits. To do this, ensure to enlist the help of a qualified attorney.