What Is a Premises Liability Accident?

Premises liability deals with liability when accidents occur because of dangerous conditions on someone’s property. Some examples of common premises liability cases include:

Slips and Falls

One of the most common types of premises liability cases involves slip and fall accidents. You might have a valid case if you slip, trip, or fall due to a hazardous condition on someone else’s property—such as a wet floor, uneven pavement, or debris—and sustain injuries.

Fires

Property owners have a responsibility to provide proper fire safety measures and maintenance. If a fire occurs due to inadequate fire prevention measures, faulty wiring, or other hazardous conditions, resulting in injury or death, it can lead to a premises liability case.

Elevator or Escalator Accidents

Malfunctioning elevators or escalators can lead to serious accidents. Property owners and maintenance companies must ensure these devices are in safe working condition. If negligence leads to an accident causing injuries, a premises liability case may arise.

Toxic Exposure

Exposure to toxic substances on someone’s property, whether it’s a workplace or a public space, can result in severe health issues, such as chronic disease. Property owners must prevent exposure and provide proper warnings. You may have a premises liability claim if you suffer harm due to toxic exposure.

Inadequate Security

Property owners are also responsible for providing reasonable security measures to protect visitors from criminal acts like assaults or robberies. If inadequate security leads to harm, victims can pursue a premises liability claim against the person or party responsible for managing the property where the attack occurred.

Structural Defects

Poorly maintained structures can collapse or cause accidents. If a balcony collapses, a roof caves in, or any structural defect leads to injuries, it might constitute a premises liability case.