If you have been injured due to an unsafe or dangerous condition that existed on someone's property, you may have a claim against them based on premise liability laws. The standard of care owed to you by that property owner may vary depending on your relationship to the owner. For example, if you were a paying guest or customer, the property owner may have a greater responsibility to you than he would have to a simple visitor. It is also important for you to know whether or not the property owner has violated any applicable codes, regulations, or safety standards in allowing the dangerous condition to exist. Many times the condition may appear hidden or not readily apparent such as an improperly designed stairway or too large of a step down through a doorway. Our office has handled premises liability cases based on various unsafe conditions and we have retained and consulted with experienced design experts and architects to determine if any codes or safety standards were violated. Sometimes the property owner is held liable even if he did not have actual knowledge of the dangerous condition, as long as he 'should have known' of the condition. The laws that apply to a premise liability case can be complicated, and sometimes proving violation of a safety code or regulation can be even more complicated. It is important to consult with attorneys that are familiar with premise liability laws and have the knowledge and resources to hire the proper experts to evaluate your case.
