Have you been hurt on someone else’s property? Talk to an Abbeville, SC, premises liability lawyer at Hite Law Firm Trial Lawyers. We are experienced lawyers who work to repair lives and help people move forward.
When a dangerous condition on someone’s property causes an injury, the victim may suffer financially, emotionally, and personally. As lawyers, we are committed legal professionals who advocate for people.
Contact us to see how we can help you inside and outside the courtroom. Talk to a local lawyer and start your premises liability case.
Lawyers representing the Abbeville, SC community
At the Hite Law Firm, our approach is to carefully research your case. We need to understand you, your situation, and what happened. That allows our lawyers to look at the situation from every angle.
If you’re hurt because of a dangerous condition on someone else’s property, a legal claim can help you rebuild your life. Rest assured that you and your interests are a priority when you work with the Hite Law Firm. Our experienced lawyers fight for those not able to fight for themselves.
Reach out by phone or use the online form to talk to us today.
What is Premises Liability?
Premises liability involves a dangerous property condition. The person or company who owns or controls the property must take reasonable steps to keep the property safe. If they don’t, and someone gets hurt, the victim may have a case for compensation.
What dangerous conditions may create premises liability?
Examples of dangerous conditions that may create premises liability include:
- Slippery substances on a floor
- Uneven flooring
- Poor maintenance of stairs, escalators, and elevators
- Poor lighting
- Lack of security personnel
- Failing to use a gate or alarm system to keep people away from dangers
- Leaking chemicals
- Bad wiring, construction defects, and poor maintenance
- Not following building codes
- Leaving a pool open without a cover
- Storing flammable materials incorrectly
- Allowing animals to roam
Examples of Premises Liability Cases
Falls, struck by, stuck between
Uneven flooring, broken or missing handrails, or failure to follow building codes are just some of the reasons that a dangerous property condition can cause injury. A person may fall, they may be struck by a moving or falling object, or they may be stuck between large objects.
Electrocution
Electrocution or electric shock is extremely dangerous. A property owner is responsible for recognizing and mitigating electrical hazards.
Drowning
Drowning or near-drowning may be the basis for premises liability. Private, residential swimming pool owners, commercial swimming pool operators, and government entities may be liable. In addition, drowning that is not related to swimming pools may be the result of a dangerous property condition.
Fires
There are many possible underlying causes of fire, including equipment malfunction, poor storage of flammable materials, inadequate property maintenance, cooking, and faulty wiring. When a fire occurs, the underlying cause may make the property owner liable for premises liability.
Toxic exposure
People use and encounter many chemicals each day. Exposure to harmful substances and chemicals can cause physical injury and harm. When these chemicals harm someone, the property owner may be responsible for providing compensation.
Negligent security
You may be injured because of an intentional act like assault and battery, robbery, or sexual assault. The person who harms you is liable. The property owner may be liable, too, for failing to take reasonable steps to prevent intentional crime on their property.
Dog bites, animal attacks
Dog bites and animal attacks fall under premises liability. Keeping people safe from bites and attacks is the responsibility of the property owner and the animal owner.
Attractive nuisance
An attractive nuisance is something that might attract a child trespasser. Playground equipment, a swimming pool, trampoline, or amusement rides are some examples. Even though the child may not have been invited to the property, the property owner still has a responsibility to prevent harm to children.
Construction accidents
Construction areas have many risks and dangers. Equipment, tools, vehicles, and building materials may all pose a hazard. When an injury occurs, the property owner or other person responsible for the danger may face liability.
If you’re hurt because of a dangerous property condition, you may have injuries that seriously impact your life. Medical bills may be substantial. Your injuries may be painful and physically limiting. The harm you have suffered can prevent you from working and spending time with family. Your life may be significantly changed.
A premises liability claim can help you rebuild your life. The financial compensation you receive can assist with bills and your living expenses. It can be a recognition of what you’ve been through.
Our premises liability lawyers at the Hite Law Firm are proud to represent the Abbeville community. If you have been hurt, we can investigate, determine what to do, and represent you. We are taking new cases now.
Premises Liability Claim FAQs
What should I do if I’m hurt on someone else’s property?
If you’re hurt on someone else’s property, seek medical attention. Do what you can to document what occurred, like taking photos, saving intangible evidence, and identifying witnesses. If the injury occurs at a business, ask to make a written report to the company, but keep the report brief and factual.
What’s the legal standard for premises liability in South Carolina?
The legal standard for premises liability in South Carolina depends on the status of the person injured – an invitee, licensee, or trespasser. The property owner has the highest duty to a business invitee, including customers and shoppers. They must seek out hazards and protect guests. Liability may be based on dangers that are known or which should have been discovered by inspecting the property.
Talk to a Lawyer – Consultations Available
The team of Heather Hite Stone and Thomas (Tombo) E. Hite, III are AV® Martindale-Hubbell® rated – the highest rating for ethics and legal availability. They are driven to help people who have been hurt by others. We can be your representatives and guides in your time of need.
Talk to a premises liability attorney at the Hite Law Firm Trial Lawyers in Abbeville about your situation and how we can help. We represent both adults and children.
Reach out in whatever way you are comfortable — by phone, our online form, or stop by our offices. Phone and video chat consultations are available. Contact us today. We look forward to meeting you.
