You may need to consider filing a claim for premises liability in Pennsylvania if you’ve been injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property. Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility of property owners to maintain safe conditions on their premises and warn visitors of any known hazards. Here are some important considerations and things to know about premises liability claims in Pennsylvania:
Types of Accidents
Premises liability claims can arise from a wide range of accidents, including slip and falls, trip and falls, negligent security leading to assaults or robberies, inadequate maintenance, dog bites, and other incidents caused by dangerous conditions on the property.
Duty of Care
Property owners in Pennsylvania owe a duty of care to invitees and licensees who enter their property legally. This duty includes ensuring the property is reasonably safe, regularly inspecting for hazards, and promptly addressing any dangerous conditions.
Visitor Classifications
Visitors to a property are typically classified as invitees, licensees, or trespassers. Invitees are owed the highest duty of care and include customers or guests invited onto the property for business purposes. Licensees are social guests or others who enter the property with the owner’s consent, while trespassers enter without permission.
Proving Negligence
To succeed in a premises liability claim, you generally need to prove that the property owner was negligent. This typically involves demonstrating that:
- The property owner owed you a duty of care.
- They breached that duty by failing to maintain safe conditions or warn of hazards.
- Their breach of duty caused your injury.
- You suffered damages as a result of the injury.
Statute of Limitations
In Pennsylvania, there is a limited amount of time to file a premises liability lawsuit after an injury occurs. The statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the injury, but it’s essential to consult with an attorney to understand the specific deadlines that apply to your case.
Comparative Negligence
Pennsylvania follows a comparative negligence system, which means that if you’re found partially at fault for your injury, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Legal Representation
Consulting with an experienced premises liability attorney is crucial if you’re considering filing a claim. An attorney can evaluate the circumstances of your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate on your behalf to pursue fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property due to negligence, it’s important to understand your rights and legal options. Consulting with our knowledgeable attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of premises liability law in Pennsylvania and pursue the compensation you deserve.