If you’re a property owner, you should know how to spot potential hazards to avoid costly lawsuits. It doesn’t matter if you’re a business owner or a homeowner as you could be held liable for injuries caused by the neglect of your property.
Take a look at some of the potential hazards that you should strive to avoid.
Inadequate Lighting
At night or in enclosed spaces where no natural light is present, you must keep the area well-lit. If someone can’t see where they are going, they will be more prone to trip, fall, and become injured. Common places where inadequate or burned-out lights can cause trouble are stairwells and parking lots.
Stairway Safety
Stairways should be appropriately illuminated and have sturdy railings. The stairs should also be in good condition, not cracked or falling apart.
Poorly Maintained Sidewalks
When sidewalks become cracked and broken, they create uneven surfaces. This can lead to tripping incidents. Additionally, when the winter weather rolls in, you should make sure to clear the path of ice and snow as quickly as possible.
Flooring Issues
If you have rugs or carpets, pay attention to their wear and tear. Torn or curled-up edges can cause injuries when people trip. Likewise, tile and other hard surfaces should be maintained to prevent slips. If the floors have just been mopped or there has been a spill that needs to be cleaned, make sure you have the right protocols to quickly place clear warnings of the danger.
Lack of Construction Alerts
If you’re the owner of a property under construction, you may wind up in hot water if the zone is not properly delineated. You should make it clear that the area is unsafe and that no trespassing is permitted.
Cover Up Attractive Nuisances
As a homeowner, you must be careful with the items on your property that could attract people. Swimming pools and playground equipment are among the most common attractive nuisances, often leading to injuries to children. Fence off your property and mark it with signs that state it’s private property.
Restrain Your Pets
Dog bites and attacks fall under premises liability laws. In this state, strict liability applies to pet owners whose animals injure invited guests. It also applies if your dog gets out and bites the mail carrier, even if your dog has never displayed any aggressive behavior before.
What to Know About Reasonable Care in Terms of Premises Liability Law
Property owners must take reasonable care of their property; however, reasonable care can be subjective. It doesn’t mean you need to be on high alert around the clock, but you should know the risks and how to mitigate them quickly.
Jefferson City premises liability lawyers can help you better understand your role as a property owner and help you avoid these common pitfalls. Anyone who gets injured on another person’s property in these circumstances should seek legal counsel.
