When an injury occurs on someone else’s property in Texas, premises liability law governs how the injured party can pursue legal action against the property owner. Not all injuries are subject to premises liability law so it’s important to understand how the laws work and what rights an injured victim has. Falls, swimming pool-related injuries, animal bites, and escalator accidents are some of the common types of premises liability-related injuries.
When are owners responsible?
Owners of private and public property have a duty to maintain safe spaces to prevent injuries to others. However, there are some exceptions to premises liability laws. The negligence of the property owner depends on the legal status of the injured victim. Victims may be classified as invitees, licensees, employees, trespassers or children. The laws apply differently depending on the victim’s status, with property owners owing the highest duty of care to those they invite onto their property.
An injured victim may be partly responsible for their injury, which limits them to suing for only partial compensation. Victims may be able to sue the property owner for pain and suffering, to cover medical bills, and for emotional distress. If the victim must miss work, they can also sue for lost wages.
Premises liability cases can be complicated
Suffering an injury on someone else’s property can leave a victim feeling confused about where to turn for help. While not all injuries are due to property owner negligence, those that are may allow the victim to seek compensation from the owner to recover their damages. Texas victims can speak with an attorney to better understand their rights when it comes to filing a premises liability lawsuit.