Galveston Private Property Liability Lawyer

Injuries can happen anywhere, from the driveway of a neighbor’s home to the aisles of a local grocery store. When a property owner fails to take reasonable steps to address dangerous hazards, they could be on the hook for any resulting injuries. A dedicated premises liability attorney may be able to hold them accountable.

If you have suffered an injury at a privately owned residence or business, you could be entitled to compensation. A successful claim requires proof of negligence, and a Galveston private property liability lawyer could help you make your case.

What Counts as Private Property?

Most people think of “private property” as a single-family home or residence. In reality, it applies much more broadly than that. Any piece of property not owned by the government—at the city, state, or federal level—qualifies as privately held. This includes not only single- and multi-family residences but also other structures.

It is worth noting that this definition also includes commercial property, like warehouses, stores, or restaurants. The owners of these establishments face the same obligations as homeowners when it comes to addressing dangerous hazards. If these obligations are not met, a Galveston lawyer could explain to an injured party if they have a private property liability claim.

Examples of Negligence on Private Property

Common examples of negligent acts can vary as much as the places where they occur. This is true regardless of the status of the injured visitor. Often, these accidents involve slips, trips, or falls. They can happen due to spilled liquids, missing handrails, broken steps, or dim lighting. Addressing these issues in a reasonable amount of time is critical due to the high risk of injury.

Swimming pools are another common source of danger on private property. From residences to hotels, there is an ever-present risk of drowning. Head injuries and bone fractures are another risk due to the potential for falling or striking the bottom of the pool while diving.

There are some hazards that cannot be entirely addressed or removed, such as natural factors like sinkholes or cliffs. Claims might also relate to attacks by dogs or other animals on the property. The failure to notify a visitor of these hazards can have profound consequences in a private property injury lawsuit in Galveston.

Claims by Trespassers vs. Guests

When a person in Galveston owns real estate, the obligation they have to protect visitors differs from one person to another. Invited guests enjoy specific protections that do not extend to trespassers. When a person has permission to enter private property, they are extended certain obligations like advanced notice of known dangers.

When it comes to trespassers, there is no such obligation. Owners do not have a duty to warn these individuals and are not responsible if they are hurt on the premises—with a few important exceptions. The rules are different when it comes to juveniles, as a property owner could be on the hook for any injuries to small children caused by an “attractive nuisance” like a swimming pool, even if they did not have permission to be there. For adult trespassers, an intentional injury is the only viable grounds for a civil claim.

Talk to a Private Property Liability Attorney Today in Galveston

If you were injured at someone else’s business or residence, you could have a case for compensation. The strength of your claim will largely depend on the steps—if any—that party took to protect you from harm. Reach out to a Galveston private property liability lawyer right away to learn more in a free case evaluation.