Posted in Premises Liability on June 7, 2023
Premises liability claims arise when property owner negligence causes someone to sustain an injury. There are many different ways that these claims can arise, but we want to discuss some of the most common types of premises liability accidents that occur. These incidents can lead to extensive injuries that cause major medical bills and time away from work for a victim. We strongly encourage any victim to reach out to a skilled premises liability attorney who can help them take the steps toward recovering compensation for their losses.
1. Slip and Fall Accidents
Did you know that approximately one million individuals go to the emergency room each year for slip and fall incidents? This represents around 12% of all falls that result in hospitalization or emergency room visits annually. Property owners must take steps to eliminate or reduce the hazards associated with slip and fall incidents, including wet floors, loose or torn carpeting, obstacles in pedestrian pathways, poor lighting, etc.
2. Dog Bite Incidents
Dog bites can lead to significant injuries, including major lacerations, puncture wounds, broken bones, and even amputations or serious bodily infections. In California, dog owners have a responsibility to ensure the safety of those around them. The state has strict liability dog bite laws in place. This means dog owners are responsible for any bite injuries caused by their pet, regardless of whether the dog has bitten anybody before or shown a propensity for aggression.
3. Hotel Accidents
Hotels and motels provide accommodations to the public, and they have a heightened duty of care owed to patrons. This means that hotel owners and operators must take necessary steps to remove all hazards that could cause harm to guests. This includes ensuring hallway safety, room safety, as well as the safe operation of pools, hot tubs, and other amenities. Additionally, hotels must ensure that they have adequate security so that guests remain safe from foreseeable threats.
4. Parking Lot Accidents
Parking lots can be incredibly dangerous. Businesses and entities that control parking lots must ensure that they are organized well so that drivers and pedestrians all understand the flow of traffic and where to yield. However, parking lots can also be dangerous when it comes to slip and fall incidents, particularly if they are not cleaned properly.
5. Swimming Pool or Hot Tub Incidents
Swimming pools and hot tubs are popular in private residences, commercial establishments, and at various types of government entities, such as public gyms. Individuals and entities that have swimming pools must ensure that they are properly enclosed and gated so that children cannot wander in and fall into the pool. Additionally, pool operators must make sure they use the proper chemical balance to maintain pool cleanliness because too many chemicals (or too few chemicals) can lead to significant ill health effects for patrons. Finally, there are times when having a lifeguard is appropriate, but if there is no lifeguard, there must be adequate warning signs stating such.
Working With an Attorney
If you or a loved one have been injured due to the negligent actions of a property owner in California, we encourage you to reach out to a skilled premises liability lawyer for assistance as soon as possible. A lawyer can investigate your case and work to recover the compensation you need.