When you visit a public or private property for business, leisure, or any other activity, you expect to remain reasonably safe and leave without incident. However, serious injuries can occur when a property owner or manager fails to maintain safe premises. Even if the negligence is unintentional, people who suffer harm have the right to seek accountability and compensation.
A Madison premises liability lawyer at Siniard Law, LLC, could help you file an injury claim, negotiate a settlement, or take your case to court when necessary. Our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys understand how to pursue these cases and have a proven record of successful outcomes.
Common Causes of Premises Liability Injuries
Before you can file a claim, the circumstances of your accident and your status on the property must align with the established legal standards. You must have had a legal right to be on the property, such as an invitee or a licensee.
An invitee typically enters the property for a purpose that benefits the owner, such as shopping or conducting business. A licensee is someone who may lawfully access the property for personal reasons, such as attending a social gathering. A third category, known as trespassers, includes individuals who are not legally permitted on the property.
When an invitee or licensee sustains injuries because a property owner or manager failed to maintain safe premises, they may pursue legal action against the responsible party. Trespassers can only do so under limited exceptions.
Incidents that may lead to a premises liability claim include:
If you were an invitee or licensee who experienced one of these incidents, our premises liability attorneys in Madison could evaluate the circumstances of your accident and determine whether the law supports a claim.
What Are the Grounds for Filing a Premises Liability Claim?
The foundation of any premises liability claim is proving negligence. You must demonstrate that the property owner, manager, or supervisor failed to take reasonable steps to keep you safe while you were on the premises.
If you sustained injuries, required medical care, and suffered losses, a Madison attorney could help you file a claim against the property’s liability insurance coverage. This process is not always straightforward because Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, which may bar an injured person from recovering compensation if they share any fault for the accident.
With this rule in mind, insurance companies often try to reduce or deny claims by shifting blame onto the injured person. They may argue that the hazard was open and obvious, meaning you had the opportunity to avoid the danger.
Speak With a Premises Liability Attorney in Madison
Pursuing a claim after being injured on a property can be challenging, making it important to consult an experienced Madison premises liability lawyer who understands how to navigate the legal and insurance issues that may affect your case.
At Siniard Law, LLC, our skilled legal team has helped injured individuals pursue compensation after a wide range of property-related incidents. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.