Businesses have certain obligations to the public. They have to adhere to regulations that apply to their industries. They generally need to fulfill contractual obligations and promises made to customers.
They also have a responsibility to maintain their facilities in reasonably safe condition. Unsafe retail establishments and commercial properties can create situations where customers or members of the public get hurt.
Slip-and-fall incidents are a common source of premises liability claims. When unsafe property conditions lead to a visitor falling and getting hurt, they may sometimes be able to hold the business accountable. When does a business or property owner become responsible for a slip-and-fall incident?
When negligence causes a dangerous situation
Some slip-and-falls occur due to impractical footwear or engaging in unsafe behavior while in public spaces, such as roughhousing near a public pool. Other slip-and-falls are clearly the result of dangerous property conditions.
Torn carpet, peeling linoleum and other tripping hazards could lead to people getting hurt. Spills, leaks and even dropped merchandise could lead to slip-and-fall incidents that break bones or cause brain injuries.
Provided that the injured party can establish that negligence on the part of the business created unsafe conditions, they could request compensation for their medical expenses, property damage losses and other financial consequences caused by the incident. If a reasonable person could identify the hazard that caused the incident, then the injured party might have grounds for a premises liability lawsuit.
Evaluating the circumstances of a recent slip-and-fall can help injured people explore their options. A premises liability lawsuit could potentially lead to reasonable compensation if the situation meets certain standards.