Premises Liability
Any time you visit someone else’s property, whether it’s public or private, you have the right to be kept out of danger. Property owners have a responsibility to keep their premises free of hazards that could put others in harm’s way. If you face a situation where you become injured as the result of a property owner’s failure to provide a safe environment, you may be able to file a premises liability claim to recover damages.
The accident lawyers at Ritchie Law Firm PLC will help you decide whether or not you should pursue compensation. In the last four decades, they have represented many Staunton, VA, residents who have suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence. Below, they suggest a few questions to ask a personal injury lawyer when attempting to identify if you have a valid claim.
When Is a Property Owner Liable for Injuries on Their Premises?
Under liability law, a property owner has a legal obligation to maintain their premises in a condition that is deemed reasonably safe. If they neglect this duty, they can be held liable for injuries sustained on their premises. To do this, it must be proven that the property owner created the dangerous condition, knew about the hazard but didn’t fix it, properly warned visitors, or should have known about the danger.
Who Is Eligible to File a Premises Liability Claim?
Generally, anyone who has all the evidence necessary to prove liability and can show they were on the property legally at the time they were injured are eligible to file a premises liability claim. An accident lawyer will help gather the proof needed for support. In cases where someone was on the premises unlawfully, the property owner usually has a solid defense. However, there are exceptions to this if the property owner acted in a reckless or intentionally harmful way.
How Long Do I Have to Submit My Claim?
Victims of premises liability only have a certain amount of time to seek compensation for their injuries. Every state has a statute of limitations stipulating how long the injured party has to file a claim. In Virginia, this time limit is two years from the date the incident occurred. Missing the deadline will result in a forfeiture of the right to submit a claim.
Being exposed to hazardous conditions on someone else’s property can leave you severely injured with mounting medical bills and a significant amount of lost wages. An accident lawyer from Ritchie Law Firm PLC will answer all your questions and determine if you should move forward with your premises liability claim. Our legal team has held many property owners accountable for their negligent actions, helping clients recover the maximum compensation they’re entitled to. Call us at (844) 698-3261