Learning Important Terminology from Slip-and-Fall Lawyers

People hire personal injury lawyers like the attorneys of Avera & Smith to help them navigate the complicated legal system—and it’s a good thing they do. Every case, suit or trial is different and comes with its own challenges and complexities. Slip-and-fall cases are no different.

If you’re wondering whether or not you have a solid personal injury case, we can help. Understanding how slip-and-fall lawyers use certain terms can help you determine if you or a loved one may be entitled to compensation for medical bills or other damages. Two of the most important terms to understand if you have been injured on someone else’s property are “Premises Liability” and “Negligent Security.”

What Do Personal Injury Lawyers Mean by “Premises Liability?”

Premises Liability is one of the most common legal concepts that will arise in a slip-and-fall case—or any other situation where an injury occurs on someone’s property. The term refers to the responsibility a property owner has to maintain a safe environment for any guests who visit their property. If a property owner fails to provide a safe environment for guests or customers and someone is injured as a result of that failure, the owner is liable for the victim’s damages.

Examples of premises liability cases might include slip-and-fall accidents due to unmarked wet floors, structurally unsound furniture, foreign objects, obstructions on the pavement and more.

What Is “Negligent Security?”

Negligent security is a specific type of premises liability which refers to the responsibility of a bar, hotel or other establishment owner to provide reasonable or adequate security on their premises. If a crime (including assault) or accident could have been prevented with adequate security measures in place, a victim may be able to bring a personal injury suit against either a residential or commercial property owner.

There are many different types of negligent security cases. A victim can claim compensation for financial losses, as well as pain and suffering, for various reasons, including:

• Failure to provide adequate locks and security measures
• Failure to illuminate parking lots and other public spaces
• Overly aggressive bar bouncers and nightclub staff
• Hiring employees with a history of violent criminal behavior

This is by no means an exhaustive list. Your personal injury lawyer will be able to explain many more scenarios that fall under both premises liability and negligent security.

If You’ve Been Injured on Someone Else’s Property, Contact Avera & Smith Today

No matter your situation, it’s important to have an experienced slip-and-fall lawyer or a proven team of personal injury lawyers in your corner. You’ll have a much better chance of winning your case if you have someone who knows the territory to guide you every step of the way. Now that you have an understanding of some critical terms, please don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation.