Accidents involving pedestrians have been an unfortunate and often overlooked aspect of urban life. Usually, these may occur due to vehicular errors or pedestrian carelessness. But there’s another rarely discussed aspect: Premises Liability.
Premises liability places the onus on landowners, businesses, and public entities to ensure the safety of pedestrians on their property. To help you better understand the nuances of this topic, let’s explore how premises liability intersects with pedestrian accidents and the role of a highly qualified attorney in upholding victims’ rights.
The Connection Between Pedestrian Accidents and Premises Liability
At its core, premises liability is rooted in the principle that property owners (and sometimes renters or lessees) must ensure their premises are reasonably safe for those who visit.
In addition to slip-and-fall accidents inside stores or dog bites in someone’s yard, injuries can be sustained by pedestrians due to unsafe property conditions inside a building, on the sidewalk, in a parking lot, and in other areas hosting foot traffic.
If that’s the case, victims may have a right to seek compensation two years from the accident date. However, it’s crucial to determine that the property owner failed to act responsibly in maintaining a hazard-free environment.
Here Are Some Examples …
If a pedestrian trips and falls on uneven walkways, protruding tree roots, or potholes, it can lead to severe injuries.
Inadequately lit areas can also be dangerous for pedestrians and make them even more susceptible to vehicular accidents.
Parking lots with poor lighting, lack of proper signage, or unclear pedestrian pathways can pose significant dangers.
If an under-construction area isn’t adequately marked or doesn’t provide safe passage for pedestrians, the property owner or construction company could be liable for accidents.
Also, while it may be less direct, areas without proper security measures can make pedestrians more vulnerable to assaults or other crimes.
The Role of an Attorney
For victims of pedestrian accidents, an attorney becomes an invaluable asset. Mishaps involving premises liability can often be legally complex, given the challenge of proving negligence and establishing the exact injury cause. Therefore, an experienced attorney can:
- Determine Liability
Establishing negligence can be tricky. An attorney can examine the scene, gather necessary evidence, and argue that the property owner was at fault.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Often, insurance companies aim to undervalue payouts. A skilled attorney can negotiate well and help you obtain the deserved compensation.
- Navigate Legal Complexities
Personal injury laws, including those related to premises liability, can be intricate. An adept attorney can ensure that your rights are upheld, and that you have the best chance at a favorable outcome.
Been in a Pedestrian Accident? Consult Our Attorneys Today!
Pedestrian accidents are multifaceted, particularly when stemming from premises liability.
Property owners bear full responsibility for ensuring their spaces are safe. So, victims must seek legal help for any associated injuries and trauma.
If you or a loved one face such an accident, contact H&P Law today for a free initial consultation. Our expert premises liability attorneys can help you navigate the challenges of the ever-evolving and complicated legal landscape with much less hassle.
