What Are the Most Common Causes of Premises Liability Accidents?

Wet Floors and Slippery Surfaces

One of the most frequent causes of premises liability accidents is wet floors and slippery surfaces. These hazards can occur in various places, such as grocery stores, restaurants, office buildings, and even private residences. Common scenarios include spills that are not promptly cleaned up, recently mopped floors without warning signs, and water tracked in from outside during bad weather. Such conditions create an unsafe environment where anyone can easily lose their footing and suffer injuries ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures.

To prove negligence in a slip and fall accident due to wet floors, it is essential to demonstrate that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to take appropriate steps to address it. Evidence such as witness statements, surveillance footage, and maintenance logs can be crucial in building your case. For instance, if surveillance footage shows that a spill was present for an extended period without any attempt to clean it up, it strongly supports the claim of negligence.

Poor Lighting

Poor lighting is another significant factor contributing to premises liability accidents. Inadequate lighting can make it difficult for individuals to see potential hazards such as steps, uneven surfaces, or obstacles in their path. This is particularly dangerous in areas like parking lots, stairwells, and hallways, where clear visibility is crucial for safe passage. Dim or flickering lights can lead to missteps and falls, especially for elderly individuals or those with impaired vision.

If you are injured due to poor lighting, it's essential to document the conditions at the time of the accident. Photographs of the poorly lit area, testimonies from others who have experienced similar issues, and records of previous complaints about the lighting can help support your claim. Additionally, maintenance records showing that the property owner failed to replace or repair lighting fixtures in a timely manner can further establish negligence.

Broken Stairs and Handrails

Broken stairs and handrails pose a serious risk to anyone using them. A misstep on a broken stair or a fall due to a loose handrail can lead to severe injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, and spinal cord injuries. Property owners are responsible for regularly inspecting and maintaining their stairs and handrails to ensure they are safe for use. Failure to do so can result in dangerous conditions that put visitors at risk.

When pursuing a premises liability claim involving broken stairs or handrails, evidence such as repair records, photos of the defects, and expert testimony on building code violations can be instrumental in proving negligence. For example, if building codes require handrails to support a certain weight and an inspection reveals that the handrail was not compliant, it can be a key piece of evidence in your case.

Unsecured Objects and Debris

Unsecured objects and debris left in walkways can easily cause trips and falls. This includes items like extension cords, clutter, merchandise in aisles, and construction materials. Property owners must ensure that walkways are clear and free from tripping hazards to prevent accidents. Such hazards are common in retail environments, construction sites, and even residential properties during renovations.

In cases where unsecured objects and debris have caused an injury, documenting the scene and gathering witness statements can be vital. Photos showing the hazardous condition, any previous complaints about the issue, and testimonies from others who have encountered similar problems can strengthen your case. Moreover, evidence that the property owner or their employees failed to follow proper safety protocols, such as regularly inspecting and clearing walkways, can further support your claim.

Inadequate Security

Inadequate security measures can lead to various types of premises liability accidents, including assaults, thefts, and other criminal activities. Property owners, especially those managing residential complexes, hotels, and commercial establishments, have a duty to provide adequate security to protect their visitors and tenants. This may include hiring security personnel, installing surveillance cameras, and ensuring proper lighting in parking lots and common areas.

If you are a victim of a crime due to inadequate security, it is important to gather evidence showing that the property owner failed to implement reasonable security measures. This can include police reports, witness statements, and records of previous criminal activity in the area. Additionally, expert testimony on industry-standard security practices and how the property owner fell short can be persuasive in proving negligence.

Defective Conditions

Defective conditions such as broken elevators, malfunctioning escalators, and faulty doors can also cause serious injuries. Property owners are obligated to ensure that all facilities and equipment on their premises are in good working order. Regular inspections and timely repairs are necessary to prevent accidents caused by defective conditions.

When an injury occurs due to a defective condition, it is essential to document the defect and gather evidence of the property owner's failure to maintain or repair it. Maintenance logs, repair invoices, and expert testimony on the defect and its potential hazards can support your premises liability claim. Additionally, any reports of similar incidents involving the same defect can help establish a pattern of negligence.

Animal Attacks

Animal attacks, particularly dog bites, are a common cause of premises liability claims. Property owners, including pet owners and landlords, are responsible for ensuring that their animals do not pose a danger to visitors. This involves properly restraining pets, providing adequate warnings, and taking necessary precautions to prevent attacks.

If you are injured in an animal attack, evidence such as medical records, photographs of the injuries, and testimonies from witnesses can support your claim. Additionally, any documentation showing that the property owner was aware of the animal's aggressive behavior but failed to take appropriate measures can further establish negligence.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a premises liability accident, it is important to take immediate action to protect your rights. Our premises liability attorneys are here to help you through the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve. Don't hesitate to contact us today for a consultation.