Our everyday lives would ideally be free from injury and accidents. Walking down the sidewalk, climbing stairs, and shopping for groceries should be safe events. However, the negligence of property owners can create dangerous conditions that result in serious injury. In cases like these, premises liability is a very real possibility.
The personal injury attorneys of Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys have seen just how these negligent actions have negatively impacted the lives of victims.
Any personal injury that was caused by the negligence of a property owner can be an instance of premises liability. Examples of this case type include building code violations, uneven floor surfaces, defective stairs, toxic chemical spills, falling store merchandise, elevators that malfunction, and poor lighting that causes a fall or criminal assault.
“The most common type of premises liability is a ‘slip and fall’ case,” explains Scott Mann, personal injury attorney. “These can occur when a property owner fails to clean a spill on their floors, or remove snow and ice on their outside walkways. This can result in a person slipping and severely injuring their back, hip, neck, or head.”
The “duty of care” of every property owner requires them to create a safe environment for all visitors. The only exception is for trespassers. Unfortunately, there are property owners who refuse to adhere to standards of safety, or warn visitors of hazardous conditions.
“In some states, premises liability is based on the status of the visitor, and whether or not they were a customer or social guest,” Scott says. “Other states do not differentiate between an invitee or licensee. Premises liability is instead determined by the actions of the visitor and owner, and the condition of the property itself.”
Proving that premises liability has occurred can be difficult. Responsibility lies with the visitor to prove that the accident was directly caused by the property owner’s negligence. For this reason you need a personal injury attorney with talent and dedication. At Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys, we have the experience necessary to win the fair compensation you deserve. Contact our office today for a consultation!