Common Types of Premises Liability Cases Jackson, MI (2024)

One common basis for a personal injury claim is an injury that occurred on someone else’s property. Some of the most common types of premises liability cases in Jackson, MI, include a range of incidents where property owners may be held responsible for injuries that occur on their premises. From slip and falls to inadequate security, understanding these types of cases can help victims know their rights and pursue appropriate legal action for their injuries.

Slip and Fall Accidents on Commercial Properties

Property and business owners have a responsibility to maintain their properties so no one is injured while visiting or passing through. A slip can lead to serious injuries like broken bones, head injuries, and lacerations. One cause of a slip can be an uneven surface. Slippery surfaces can also cause serious fall-related injuries.

Common steps that can prevent falls include placing temporary warning signs near wet surfaces and monitoring spaces for obstructions on the ground that someone could tumble over. Following a fall injury, such as a slip and fall, the person who sustained bodily harm has the right to seek legal counsel as a means of holding the property owner accountable for failing to prevent the injury.

Injuries From Unsafe Conditions in Residential Buildings

Residential building owners have to follow state and federal laws when it comes to maintaining their properties. General requirements include keeping harmful substances and materials away from residents and ensuring that there is not dangerous mold in the buildings.

Some specific requirements vary by state and local regulations, but maintaining a safe environment is a legal duty across the board. When property owners fail to maintain safe conditions for their tenants, they can become financially liable for any harm that their residents incur.

Liability for Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Dog owners are required to keep their pets from harming others. This means restraining the animals from coming into contact with visitors or anyone who passes the owner’s property. If someone is bitten or knocked over by another person’s dog, the injured victim can take legal action by hiring a premises liability attorney.

Under Michigan’s comparative fault system, someone who is injured by a dog can seek compensation even if they are partly to blame for provoking the attack. Dog bite cases can be complicated and fall under personal injury law, requiring the legal services of an attorney who has handled dog bite cases before.

Accidents Due to Inadequate Security Measures

Premises liability cases can involve criminal acts. If someone is robbed or assaulted on someone else’s property, the property owner could be held financially liable if they did not take reasonable precautions to safeguard their land or business.

One example would be a property owner who is aware of crime in the area but fails to install lighting or basic security measures. If someone is subsequently mugged, the property owner could be financially liable for the bodily harm and financial losses suffered by the victim.

Premises Liability for Swimming Pool Accidents

Whether at a private or public swimming pool, any injury or death that occurs could become a financial liability for the property owner. Cities and private property owners who allow outsiders to use their pools have a duty of care to prove basic safety measures. For example, public pools must be carefully monitored by qualified lifeguards.

The owners of private residences also have a responsibility to monitor pools while guests are using them. Drownings are always tragic. Surviving loved ones can hire legal representation before filing a wrongful death claim if the injury led to a death.

Premises Liability in Construction Site Accidents

Premises liability in construction site accidents applies when property owners or contractors fail to maintain safe conditions, leading to injuries. Construction sites are inherently risky, but owners and contractors must follow safety regulations to protect workers and visitors.

Injuries can occur due to hazards like unsecured equipment, inadequate signage, or exposed wiring. If negligence in maintaining the site causes an accident, injured parties may seek compensation under premises liability, holding the responsible party accountable for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

FAQs

What Are the Four Classifications of Premises Liability?

Premises liability falls into four main classifications: invitee, licensee, social guest, and trespasser. An invitee is someone on the property for business purposes, like a customer, with the highest level of protection. A licensee is there for their own benefit. A social guest is invited for non-business reasons. Trespassers generally have limited protections.

What Is the Premises Liability Law in Michigan?

Premises liability law in Michigan holds property owners accountable for injuries caused by unsafe conditions on their property. Owners must keep their premises reasonably safe for lawful visitors, such as customers or tenants. Liability depends on the visitor’s classification (invitee, licensee, or trespasser) and whether the owner was negligent in maintaining safe conditions.

What Are Premises Cases?

Premises cases involve injuries occurring on someone else’s property due to unsafe or hazardous conditions. These cases hold property owners or occupiers responsible if they fail to maintain a safe environment. Common premises cases in Jackson, Michigan, include slip and falls, inadequate security, dog bites, and exposure to hazardous substances, depending on the visitor’s status and owner’s negligence.

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Premises Liability Claims in Michigan?

In Michigan, the statute of limitations on premises liability claims is three years. This means that if you’re injured on someone else’s property due to unsafe conditions, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Failing to file within this period typically forfeits your right to seek compensation.

Speak with Our Team About Your Premises Liability Case

If you were on someone else’s property and were injured, the owner of that property or business could be financially liable for your injury. Taking timely action by hiring an attorney can greatly improve the chances that you receive fair compensation.

The legal team at Wigod & Falzon can review your case before taking appropriate legal action. When business owners are held accountable for causing an injury, it can prevent other people from becoming victims of a dangerous property. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.