Meigs County Premises Liability Lawyer
When a person enters a property, the owner of the property has a legal obligation to ensure the person does not get injured. This obligation is clearly defined, and if a person is injured while on the property of another person or entity, they may be able to file suit against the property owner with help from a Meigs County premises liability lawyer.
Even if a person did not get permission from the property owner, the owner still has a legal responsibility to warn them of any dangers that may be present on the property. Premises liability law can be complex and difficult to understand, but a skilled injury attorney can provide some clarification.
Four Types of Property Visitors
When it comes to premises liability laws, the courts usually place visitors to the property in one of four categories. The category the visitor falls in has a major bearing on whether the alleged victim has a claim or not. The four different categories of visitors are as follows:
- Individuals who enter a property with the verbal or written consent of the owner are known as licensees
- Social guests are individuals who visit a property for social purposes with the verbal or written consent of the owner
- An invitee is a person who is invited to visit a property, and it is generally understood the person extending the invitation has taken steps to reduce the risk of an accident. Customers in stores are considered invitees
- Trespassers are individuals who enter a property without the written or verbal permission of the owner(s)
Despite making an illegal entrance, trespassers still have certain rights and protections, and in many cases, they may be able to file suit against the owner of a property if they are injured. Individuals and companies dealing with trespassers should consult a Meigs County premises liability lawyer if they are taken to court.
Common Legal Factors in Premises Liability Cases
In many premises liability cases, consideration is given to the type of property and the actions of the visitor and owner. When a person enters a property, they are expected to exercise a reasonable degree of care and take common-sense measures to avoid being injured. Conversely, the person who invited the visitor to the property is expected to take reasonable steps to ensure the risk of injury or harm is as low as possible before the visitor arrives. During proceedings, court officials will examine the following factors:
- How the property is used
- Whether the injury or accident was foreseeable
- Conditions under which the injured party entered the property
- The extent to which the owner of the property attempted to warn the injured person of any hazards
For example, if a person enters a junkyard or factory, they are expected to exercise more care than if they entered a residential or office building. This is due to the fact that it is generally understood that junkyards and factories house potentially dangerous equipment.
However, if a person is not warned about this equipment, they may be able to hold the property owner liable with help from a Meigs County premises liability lawyer.
Consulting a Meigs County Premises Liability Attorney
If you have been injured on the property of another person, an established lawyer may be able to provide you with assistance. Premises liability laws can be complex and difficult to understand, but with the aid of an experienced attorney, you may be able to get financial compensation for your injury. Get in touch with a Meigs County premises liability lawyer to discuss your case today.
