Businesses and property owners may be liable for the injuries of others. If unsafe conditions lead to someone getting hurt, the injured party may have grounds for a premises liability lawsuit.
There are many unique and unusual situations, such as ceiling collapses, that might lead to a premises liability lawsuit based on claims of negligence. However, a large percentage of claims brought due to unsafe property conditions fall into one of three primary categories.
What are the leading causes of premises liability lawsuits?
1. Slips or trips
Same-level falls, such as slip-and-falls, are a known safety concern at any publicly-accessible location. Businesses generally need to keep their facilities clean and ensure that their workers address any spills in a timely fashion. Ignoring slipping or tripping hazards can lead to premises liability lawsuits when people injure their brains or break bones because they fall.
2. Dog bite incidents
Many premises liability lawsuits brought against individual property owners stem from an aggressive animal. Homeowners and renters are often liable for the injuries their pets inflict if they attack humans. Businesses that allow animals on their premises may also have a degree of liability if animal attacks occur.
3. Criminal activity
Technically, businesses are not responsible for crimes committed by members of the public. However, they may be liable for crimes that the company could have reasonably predicted and prevented. Negligent security practices that contribute to druggings, muggings or assaults can lead to claims against the business that failed to protect visitors and customers.
Filing a premises liability lawsuit can potentially lead to compensation for those hurt on private property or at a business. People attacked by animals, injured during crimes or hurt because they fell may have grounds for a lawsuit.