Lancaster Premises Liability Lawyer

Holding Negligent Parties Accountable in Antelope Valley

Accidents can happen anywhere, turning a routine day into a life-altering event. When such incidents occur on someone else's property, navigating the legal complexities of premises liability becomes crucial. At Accident Attorneys, we specialize in providing adept legal representation for those seeking justice in California. Our experienced team of attorneys is dedicated to helping victims secure the compensation they deserve in premises liability cases.

Call Accident Attorneys today at (661) 261-4929 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our premises liability attorney in Lancaster!

Understanding Premises Liability

Premises liability encompasses the legal responsibility of property owners or occupiers for accidents and injuries occurring on their premises. These incidents may range from slips and trips to falls, all stemming from unsafe conditions. Property owners must exercise a duty of care towards visitors, ensuring their premises are reasonably safe. When this duty is breached, and injuries ensue, the injured party may have grounds to initiate a premises liability claim.

Establishing liability in these cases is intricate. At Accident Attorneys, we meticulously investigate each case, identifying responsible parties and constructing a compelling case for our clients. Whether the incident transpired in a retail store, parking lot, private residence, or any other property, our expertise allows us to navigate legal complexities and advocate effectively for compensation.

Establishing Liability in Premises Liability Cases

The civil courts in the Antelope Valley and throughout California recognize the right of an accident victim to sue for injuries suffered on the property of another party under certain circumstances. If it can be proven that the accident could have been prevented through reasonable precaution on the part of the property owner or certain other parties, the plaintiff stands to recover monetary damages for his or her losses.

The California Civil Jury Instructions direct jurors to evaluate cases for the following elements to determine whether a claim is valid:

• The defendant owns, leases, occupies, or controls the property where the accident took place
• The defendant was negligent in the use or maintenance of the property
• The plaintiff was harmed in the accident
• The defendant's negligence was a substantial factor in causing the plaintiff's injury or death

Provided that these elements can be satisfied in your case, you may recover financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain, suffering, and emotional distress.

Examples of Premises Liability Claims

The slip and fall accident is probably the most widely recognized example of a personal injury case involving premises liability. If the defendant knew, or reasonably should have known, about the spill or other hazard that caused the fall yet did nothing to remove the danger or to provide a warning, the accident victim has grounds to sue.

Another example is a swimming pool accident in one of the many pools in Palmdale and Lancaster's backyards. If the drowning or other accident could have been prevented by a proper four-sided fence with a self-latching gate, the accident victim or surviving family members can often pursue legal action.

It is also possible to sue a landlord for a dog bite when he or she was negligent in providing a fence or warning signs to the public or to file a claim against a landlord or hotel operator for a robbery, rape, or assault that could have been prevented with proper security measures.

There are many possible scenarios for a premises liability claim. If you believe you may have a case, we encourage you to contact us at Accident Attorneys for a free consultation with an Antelope Valley personal injury lawyer.

When is a Property Owner Liable?

Generally speaking, property owners have a responsibility to keep their premises reasonably safe for guests, visitors, tenants, employees, customers, and/or anyone else who legally enters the property. If a dangerous condition exists on the property, and the property owner is aware of (or should be aware of), the property owner must address, correct, repair, or warn of the condition.

Some examples of dangerous property conditions include:

• Spilled liquids
• Icy ground
• Loose dogs/animals
• Potholes
• Lack of exit signs
• Unfenced swimming pools
• Torn carpeting
• Lack of handrails
• Dangerous stairs/stairwells
• Uneven floors
• Lack of security guards/cameras
• Lack of emergency exit plan signs
• Dim lighting in walkways and other similar areas

Recoverable Damages in Premises Liability Claims

In the aftermath of premises liability incidents, victims may seek compensation for various damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for current and future medical bills linked to injuries sustained on the premises.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost during recovery due to an inability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Financial relief for physical and emotional distress resulting from the injuries.
• Property Damage: Compensation for damages to personal belongings during the incident.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In cases of fatality, surviving family members have the right to pursue damages covering funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional distress.

Recognizing the unique challenges of premises liability cases, Accident Attorneys tirelessly advocate for clients, ensuring they secure the maximum compensation available under the law. Our goal is to alleviate the financial strain caused by injuries sustained on another's property and aid clients in rebuilding their lives."

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Premises Liability Claim in California?

California law imposes a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, within which premises liability claims must be filed. In most cases, the injured party has two years from the date of the injury to initiate legal action. It is crucial to act promptly, as failing to file within the specified timeframe may result in the forfeiture of the right to seek compensation.

Prompt action is also essential for preserving evidence and securing witness statements while fresh memories remain. At Accident Attorneys, we emphasize the importance of timely action and guide our clients through every step of the legal process. Our attorneys are well-versed in California premises liability laws, ensuring all necessary steps are taken within the applicable timeframe to build a strong case.

Contact Our Lancaster Premises Liability Attorney Today

Premises liability claims are often very complex. Working with an attorney with the experience and knowledge needed to achieve a successful outcome is in your best interests. At Accident Attorneys, we have more than 75 years of combined experience in a broad range of personal injury matters, including unsafe premises. Our Lancaster premises liability lawyers serve clients throughout Antelope Valley and are prepared to fight for your fair recovery.   

Contact Accident Attorneys by calling (661) 261-4929 today to schedule a meeting with our premises liability lawyer in Lancaster!