Premises Liability & Personal Injury Attorney in Glendale, CA
Were you or someone you care about injured on another’s property, due to the owner’s carelessness? First and foremost, hopefully, you are healing and on a promising road to full physical and emotional recovery. Next, what remains, is the need for financial recuperation. This accident was not your fault, yet you have been depleted financially and your spirit broken. The property owner is responsible for not only your expenses but your pain and suffering that relate to this unfortunate incident.
You may be overwhelmed, unsure of your options, or the next best steps. It feels like a battle you would rather let someone else fight on your behalf.
Contact our personal injury attorneys at Glendale Law Firm today and take comfort in knowing that our experienced premises liability lawyers will review your case at no cost and spring into action, so you will not have to. Call us for your Free Consultation today at (818) 818-1948.
Why do I Need a Lawyer after my Premises Liability Accident?
Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side after a premises liability accident helps to ensure you will be well informed of your options and more likely to fully recover damages. They will review your case to be sure there is proper cause to file for compensation against the property owner. To do so, negligence on the part of the property owner must be present.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys know what to look for and which questions to ask. Upon deciding to proceed, proper paperwork will be filed for your case. You will be relieved of the stress caused by adhering to deadlines, investigating the accident, and going up against insurance companies. This is not solely your responsibility any longer. So, breathe a sigh of relief, knowing you have advocates who will take care of your legal needs and fight for you to receive maximum compensation.
What is the Law in California for a Premises Liability Accident?
Like all U.S. states, California premises liability law states that every property owner must maintain their premises to a degree of care that keeps all visitors reasonably safe and not at risk of injury or death. If there is a danger to guests that cannot be immediately remedied, they must be promptly informed of the hazardous area or situation. If the property is not properly maintained or if an unsafe space or condition exists without notification, the property owner is liable for damages the visitor incurs. This is, of course, as long as negligence can be shown. This burden of proof is the exact reason you need a lawyer.
What Types of Accidents are Covered Under Premises Liability?
Any accident that involves personal injury due to an unsafe condition on another’s property is, in most cases, covered under premises liability. Again, it can not be said enough, this is only as long as the owner’s negligence can be brought to light. Examples of ways these accidents could happen include, but are certainly not limited to:
- Fire
- Slip and Fall
- Poorly lit areas
- Animal bites/attacks
- Toxic or chemical fumes
- Faulty elevators, escalators, or stairs
- Uneven or loose flooring or shelving
- Tripping hazards, including debris, cords, and holes in flooring, sidewalks, walkways, and stairs
- Poorly finished or maintained swimming pools
- Any (potential) hazard without signage to warn of danger
- Electrical (exposed) or sharp object (broken, jagged, or jutting) danger
Your accident may have occurred at another’s residence, place of business, public building, public park, or even an amusement park. The bottom line is, it was not your fault. You should not be the one paying for your damages. You are suffering enough and deserve compensation!
What Kinds of Injuries are Covered Under Premises Liability?
Injuries to a visitor that result from the negligence of the property owner are covered under premises liability. Since damages range from minor to debilitating, to even death, compensations vary widely as well. Some common injuries are:
- Pulled, strained, or torn muscles
- Electrical shocks
- Burns – from fire, electrical, or chemical
- Broken or fractured bones
- Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Chemical exposure injuries
- Deep cuts or puncture wounds from animal bites, or from broken or jagged metal or glass
Wrongful death also occurs, sometimes immediately upon the accident, and other times later, due to the severity of injuries sustained. In both scenarios, a loved one is lost due to the disregard of another. Their family deserves to be compensated for their tragic loss.
It is necessary to hold negligent property owners accountable for their inaction. By filing a personal injury claim for your damages, you are not only serving yourself justice but making it safer for others in the future. Maybe they will not have to endure the pain and grief that you have.
Whether you are suffering from a personal injury or the loss of a loved one, our premises liability lawyers can help you to receive the settlement you are entitled to. Call Glendale Law Firm today for your free consultation at (818) 818-1948.
Are Pool Owners Liable for All Personal Injuries on Their Premises?
If a pool owner does not keep their property reasonably safe for guests, they may be liable for damages, should an accident occur. Though pools are strewn all over the U.S., California sure has a dense covering of them throughout its warm-weathered land. With more than 1 million residential pools statewide and over 3 thousand public pools just in Los Angeles County, it is no wonder that they account for a large number of premises liability accidents.
Public Pools
All parts of a public pool are required to be constructed free of safety hazards. In the state of California, public swimming pools must be equipped with safety precautions that prevent physical entrapment. Pools must have drains that are unable to be blocked, drain covers, and other anti-entrapment devices or systems. Public pools must also have:
- Steps, ladders, stairs, or ramps as a means of entry and exit
- Sufficient lighting above and below the water for lifeguards or others to see if someone is in distress
- Fences or gates as an enclosure
- Posted capacity, exit, and emergency signs
- Posted No LifeGuard on duty sign
- Posted No Diving if 6 feet or less
- Proper ventilation if indoors
- Chlorine – must have a sensor with an alarm for detection of over-exposure limit
- Properly operating the filtration system
- Body hook and life ring
- Water that is kept clean and clear
- The entire facility kept in good repair
In addition to all of these standards, the premises must be reasonably clean and free of debris, damage, and hazards, both in and around the pool. This also applies in concession areas, bathrooms, showers, and changing areas.
Residential Pools
Much like public pools, residential pools and their surrounding areas must be reasonably free of hazards. In addition, a fence or gate is necessary to surround the pool area to prevent children from entering on their own. Other options include alarms and special safety covers.
A suction and circulation system must be equipped with anti-entrapment grates. Any other safety system that helps to prevent entrapment is encouraged. Of course, always having a trusted adult watching while children are present is imperative. Further, ensuring that safety equipment is available is strongly encouraged.
Pools are a part of life in California. Enjoying them safely should be, too. When owners fail to take the necessary precautions and adequate care of their property, innocent people get hurt.
( View: California Pool Requirements )
What Should I do if I am Injured on Someone Else’s Property?
If you are injured on another’s property, evaluate your state and determine if emergency medical treatment is necessary. If so, call 911. If not, get medical attention as soon as possible.
Be sure to document the incident, taking pictures or video if possible. An accident report at the site ensures that the facility is made aware of the incident. A copy of the accident report will also provide the necessary information for your case, should you choose to file. Any medical records and bills you acquire will be helpful, as well. If there are willing witnesses that you can secure information from, be sure to get their contact information and statement if you are able.
When the dust has settled and you are ready to get some much-needed help, put your trust in the personal injury attorneys at Glendale Law Firm. We will guide you toward relief and restitution.
Call us for your Free Consultation today at (818) 818-1948.