If you own a piece of property in Pensacola, namely a home or business, you have a legal duty to keep visitors to that property free from harm. This is called premises liability. It means that when someone visits you or your property, they should be able to do so without risk of harm. In order for this to be true, you must maintain the property in such a way that it is reasonably free of hazards.
For example: You know that the walkway to your front door is horribly cracked and pitted. You don’t have the money to make repairs right now, but you’ve also done nothing to warn people of the hazard. A guest walks up to your front door, trips on an uneven section of the walkway and injures themselves. If they choose to sue you, you could be held liable for their medical bills and more.
Not all premises liability lawsuits end in the owner being held responsible. In some cases, a person’s own behaviors contribute to the accident. The owner and the victim may share fault, or the victim could be found completely at fault.
Any person who is injured on the property of another should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney for help in determining whether or not they have the elements necessary for a successful lawsuit. When a person is able to prove their case, they may be reimbursed for medical bills, lost wages and more. An attorney can help a victim understand the types and amounts of compensation they may qualify for.