If you are a property owner, there is always a chance that someone may fall on your property. This could be due to a number of reasons, such as a defect in the property, an obstruction on the property, or simply a slip and fall. Whether you’re getting a luxurious tub conversion or a bathroom remodel Amarillo and there’s a trip, or the kid from around the block slips on your porch, insurance policies can protect you from the liability of someone falling on your property.
If someone falls on your property, you may be liable, leading to huge emotional and psychological impacts. This means that you may be responsible for compensating the injured person for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. It is important to note that you may also be liable for the injuries of someone who falls on your property if you are aware of the danger but do nothing to fix it. Keep reading to learn more about liability for falls on property.
Hazardous Conditions
If a fall on your property was caused by a hazardous condition, you might be held legally responsible. In many cases, hazardous conditions on property are the result of negligence on the part of the property owner. For example, the owner may not have properly maintained the property or may have failed to remove an obvious hazard.
Avoiding Liability
You are responsible for keeping your property safe for visitors. If you do not take reasonable steps to keep your property safe, and someone gets injured as a result, you may be held liable. There are a few things you can do to help reduce the risk of someone falling on your property:
- Make sure that there are no obstructions in walkways or entrances
- Install handrails and other safety features where necessary
- Keep pathways and sidewalks clear of snow and ice
- Ensure that stairs are well lit and have non-slip surfaces
- Inspect and repair hazards
- Post warning signs
- Provide proper safety equipment
Considerations for Business Owners
As a business owner, you may be held liable if someone falls on your property. There are, however, some special considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, it is important to ensure that your property is safe for visitors. This includes taking steps to remove any potential hazards, such as debris or spilled liquids. You should also make sure that walkways and entrances are well-lit and free of obstacles. If someone does fall on your property, you may be able to avoid liability by proving that you took reasonable precautions to protect visitors from harm.
Liability for Injuries Caused by Invitees
Another specific circumstance to consider is the property owner’s liability for injuries caused by invitees. An invitee is a person who is invited onto the property for a business purpose, such as a customer or client. The property owner has a duty to protect the invitee from any foreseeable harm, including injuries that may occur on the property. This includes making sure that the premises are safe and free of hazards. If an injury does occur, the property owner may be liable for damages.
Umbrella Insurance
There is no question that insurance is important. Everyone needs insurance to protect themselves and their families from the unexpected. No one knows when they will need to file a claim, but if something happens, insurance can help you get back on your feet. Umbrella Insurance protects property owners when these instances occur. It’s a type of liability insurance that provides additional coverage beyond the limits of your homeowners’ or renters’ policies. If someone falls on your property and you are liable, Umbrella Insurance can help protect you from having to pay out-of-pocket for damages that exceed your policy limits. Umbrella policies typically start at $1 million in coverage but can be increased to provide greater protection if needed.
