Dangerous Premises Claims

Property owners and occupiers have a responsibility to make sure visitors are reasonably safe when on the premises. Usually, the legal obligation is to take reasonable steps to ensure that the premises are safe. When the people in control of the premises fail to meet that reasonable standard, they may be held legally liable for the damages that result. Dangerous conditions can take many different forms. Sometimes the danger is due to poor maintenance or a failure to inspect the building or property. Other times the danger can result from poor construction.

Here are three things to be aware of in the event of a fall or other accident due to unsafe premises:

• Document the fall or accident and the conditions if you can do so safely (take pictures)
• Notify someone responsible for the premises (a security guard or other employee)
• Identify any witnesses to the accident or the conditions that caused it and get their contact information.