When you visit another person’s property, the last thing you expect is to leave in an ambulance. However, when a property owner is negligent, and you suffer a preventable injury as a result, you may be eligible for compensation. It is essential to meet the statute of limitations when filing a premises liability claim. Keep reading to learn more about these incidents and discover how personal injury attorneys can help you through these challenging times.
What are premises liability claims?
Premises liability claims can occur when an accident happens due to negligence on a property owned by another person. This includes:
- Slip and falls: These occur when someone trips or slips because of an improperly maintained surface. Examples include broken stairs, loose carpeting, ice or snow that has not been removed, and uneven pavement.
- Fire safety: When a property owner does not take the necessary measures to prevent fires, they may be liable for any injuries or damages that occur. This includes failing to install and maintain smoke detectors, blocking fire exits, or using faulty wiring that could start a fire.
- Insufficient security: In spaces like malls, medical facilities, and hotels, ensuring there is adequate security is essential. Adequate safety includes employing guards, locking doors, and installing security cameras. Without these elements, the property owner may be responsible. For example, if someone is harmed in a hotel room because the locks were broken, the hotel may face liability.
Generally, any accident on a property due to the owner’s negligence may be eligible for a premises liability claim. However, if you are on the property illegally as a trespasser, you will not be eligible to pursue damages as homeowners have no legal obligation to keep those barred from their property safe.
What is the statute of limitations for these incidents?
When you sustain an injury while on another person’s property, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a premises liability lawsuit. Failure to file a lawsuit within this time frame bars you from collecting damages once the two-year period has passed.
However, just because you have two years to file does not mean you should wait to pursue compensation. The longer you wait, your chances of receiving justice grow slimmer. This is due to the fact that witnesses move, memories grow foggy, and evidence can be lost. As such, it is imperative to contact an experienced attorney immediately following an injury.
When you’re hurt, Friedman Schuman Layser can help. Our dedicated legal team will work to examine your case to fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances. We believe you should not suffer due to the negligence of someone who does not maintain their property. Contact our offices today to learn more about how we can help you.