Both commercial and residential property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe premises for visitors, tenants, and guests. This responsibility may fall on the property owner, a property management company, or both. When dangerous conditions are ignored and someone gets hurt, the injured person may be entitled to compensation under California’s premises liability laws.
If you were injured due to unsafe property conditions, an experienced Tustin personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue a claim for damages.
Property Owner Responsibilities in California
Under California law, property owners must regularly inspect and maintain their premises using the same level of care a reasonably prudent person would apply in similar circumstances. If they fail to do so, and someone is injured as a result, they may be held liable.
Not every injury is automatically the fault of a property owner. To succeed in a premises liability case, you must prove that the owner was negligent and that their negligence directly caused your injury.
Common Types of Premises Liability Accidents
Premises liability claims cover a wide range of situations, including injuries caused by:
Falls on broken stairs or uneven flooring
Slipping on wet or slick surfaces
Drowning or near-drowning in unsecured swimming pools
Burns from fires, gas leaks, or explosions
Cuts from broken glass or sharp debris
Dog bites occurring on the property
Roof or ceiling collapses
Assaults resulting from negligent security
Each case is unique, and the nature of the hazard often determines who may be held responsible.
Injuries Resulting from Unsafe Conditions
The types of injuries in premises liability cases vary greatly depending on the circumstances. Common injuries include:
Sprains and strains
Lacerations or deep cuts
Broken bones or fractures
Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Fatal injuries leading to wrongful death claims
Non-fatal injuries can still result in serious financial hardship. Victims often face long hospital stays, multiple surgeries, ongoing physical therapy, and lost income. A successful legal claim can help cover these costs and provide relief during recovery.
Proving Negligence in a Premises Liability Case
Premises liability cases can be complex. It is not enough to prove that you were injured on someone’s property — you must also prove that the owner or manager failed to maintain a reasonably safe environment.
In some cases, the victim’s own actions may be examined. If the dangerous condition was obvious and avoidable, and the injured person failed to act with reasonable care, the property owner may argue that the victim shares responsibility.
California uses a comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are found partially at fault for your own injury, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your level of responsibility.
An experienced attorney can help build a strong case, gather evidence, and protect your rights throughout the legal process.
Speak with a Tustin Premises Liability Lawyer
Premises liability claims often involve complex legal standards and pushback from property owners, landlords, or insurance companies. If you have been hurt on someone else’s property, it is critical to work with a knowledgeable attorney who understands California law and can advocate for you effectively.
Gary A. Peterson has extensive experience handling premises liability cases and helping clients recover the compensation they deserve.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
If you were injured on unsafe property in Tustin, contact our office for a free consultation. We will listen to your story, explain your legal options, and help you take the next step toward justice and financial recovery. Call now to speak with a trusted Tustin premises liability attorney.
