Halloween is one of the most exciting days of the year, for parents and their children. However, if you are a property owner and plan on having children for trick-or-treating, you are legally responsible for ensuring that your property is safe for all. Below, we have created a short list regarding Halloween safety tips for homeowners in Pennsylvania to help. Please continue reading and contact our experienced Pennsylvania personal injury attorneys if you or your child is injured this Halloween. Here are some of the questions you may have:
Halloween Safety Tips for Homeowners in Pennsylvania
- Make sure that your steps are in working condition. Missing or wobbly steps are unacceptable. Additionally, you must ensure that all railings are well-fastened and secured.
- All walkways should be well-lit and cleared of any safety hazards. Do not put Halloween decorations in the path where trick-or-treaters will walk.
- Ensure your porch is clear of safety hazards–for example, if you have flower pots on your steps, you should strongly consider moving them out of the way.
- Never hand out expired or spoiled candy.
- If you plan on having jack-o-lanterns with candles inside, ensure that they are nowhere that trick-or-treaters could accidentally knock them over, as this can start a fire.
- Always keep pets inside, and if your pet is aggressive, lock it away in another room.
What should I do if my child is hurt this Halloween?
If your child is injured this Halloween, you should take several steps to document the incident. You should take pictures of the unsafe condition that caused the accident, ask anyone who saw the accident for their contact information, notify the property owner of the accident, ensure your child receives medical care immediately, and retain the services of an experienced Pennsylvania personal injury attorney.
How long will I have to sue for an injury in Pennsylvania?
This Halloween, if you or your child are injured, you must ensure that you file your premises liability claim within the state’s statute of limitations. Since the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Pennsylvania is, generally, two years, you will, generally, have two years from the date of your accident to sue the property owner responsible for your injuries. If you wait any longer than two years, you will most likely be barred from suing. Our firm is here to help you today–all you have to do is ask.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENNSYLVANIA FIRM
Friedman Schuman is an experienced and dedicated legal resource for clients throughout Pennsylvania. We proudly serve clients facing a wide range of legal matters. If you require the services of an effective attorney, please contact Friedman Schuman today to schedule a consultation.
