Premises liability claims are legal actions that someone who was injured on another person’s property can use to hold the property owner or occupier responsible for the hazardous conditions that caused the injuries. Premises liability claims can be complex.
It is often helpful to consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and options. A Houston premises liability lawyer from Williams Hart & Boundas can accurately assess the fair value of your damages and fight tirelessly for your full recovery.
What Is Premises Liability?
A premises liability claim arises when someone is injured on another person’s property due to the property owner’s negligence in maintaining a safe environment. This means the property owner failed to fix or warn about a dangerous condition that caused the injury. Property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition and warn visitors of potential hazards.
A premises liability claim requires proving the property owner was negligent in their duty of care, meaning they failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the injury. Premises liability claims can arise from various accidents, including slip and falls, inadequate security leading to assault, and accidents related to defective conditions such as unsafe stairs or inadequate lighting.
If successful, a premises liability claim can lead to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the injury. Texas law distinguishes between different types of visitors (invitee, licensee, and trespasser) and their respective rights and protections on the property. There is a two-year statute of limitations for most premises liability claims.
This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a premises liability lawsuit and should consult with a Houston attorney at the earliest available opportunity if you believe you have a case.
Injuries and Compensation in Premises Liability Claims
Common injuries in premises liability claims include a range of physical injuries stemming from unsafe conditions on someone else’s property. These can include broken bones, head injuries, spinal injuries, scarring, and burns. Compensation in premises liability claims can cover a wide range of costs, including:
- Pain and suffering: The amount awarded for physical pain and emotional distress varies depending on the severity and impact on the victim’s life
- Medical expenses: This includes costs for past and future treatment related to the injury, such as doctor visits, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy
- Lost wages and earning capacity: If the injury caused you to miss work or impacts your future earning potential, you can recover lost income and claim damages for your losses
- Additional damages: These can include property damage, loss of enjoyment of life, and, in some cases, punitive damages for gross negligence
It is essential to consult with a premises liability attorney if you have been injured on someone else’s property in Houston. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, assess the strength of your claim, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact a Houston Attorney To Discuss Your Premises Liability Case
A Houston premises liability lawyer from our firm can conduct a detailed investigation of the accident scene, including taking photos and videos, interviewing witnesses, and gathering relevant documents such as maintenance records. We can also ensure that crucial evidence, such as surveillance footage or physical evidence from the scene, is preserved before it is lost or altered.
Our attorneys can handle all communications and negotiations with the insurance company while pursuing a fair settlement that covers medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact Williams Hart & Boundas today to request your free case consultation.