Property owners are expected to keep their premises safe. Those who don’t may face a premises liability claim if someone comes onto their property and suffers an injury.
For those who are injured on someone else’s property, being able to determine what led to the incident will be a central point in a compensation claim. The following are some of the common ways property owners might be too lax when it comes to keeping their property safe.
Ignoring known hazards
A common oversight by property owners is failing to repair known hazards within a reasonable time frame. This includes things like broken staircases, loose floorboards or damaged sidewalks. Property owners have a duty to ensure their premises are safe for visitors. If a hazard is identified and not promptly addressed, and if someone is injured as a result, the property owner could be held liable for any resulting damages.
Failing to provide adequate security
Another critical area that property owners might overlook is the adequacy of security measures. This is particularly relevant in areas with a higher risk of crime. If a property owner doesn’t take reasonable steps to secure their premises, such as installing adequate lighting in parking areas, maintaining locks on doors and windows or hiring security personnel, they may be found liable for incidents like assaults or thefts that occur due to these oversights.
Bypassing pool safety requirements
Owners of properties with swimming pools must adhere to specific safety regulations to prevent accidents. This includes maintaining proper fencing, securing the pool area and ensuring clear markings and safety equipment are available. Ignoring these regulations can lead to serious incidents, such as drownings or injuries from slips, making the property owner liable for any resulting claims.
Overlooking common area hazards
Property owners must also maintain common use areas, such as hallways, elevators and parking lots. Lack of regular maintenance can lead to various hazards, from uneven surfaces leading to trips and falls to malfunctioning equipment causing injuries. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to prevent these issues and reduce the likelihood of liability.
Victims of these incidents should ensure that they get medical care. Seeking compensation is often possible, so asking for assistance from a legal representative who can explain their options and work on the case for them while they heal is generally wise.