Bakersfield Premises Liability Lawyer

What is Premises Liability?

Premises liability is a legal principle that requires property owners to maintain safe conditions for visitors. If a hazardous condition causes an accident and injury, the owner may be liable for negligence. Under California law, property owners must take reasonable precautions to prevent injuries.

Who is Protected Under Premises Liability Laws?

Premises liability laws apply to different types of visitors, including:

• Invitees: Customers or clients visiting a business, such as shoppers at a retail store.
• Licensees: Social guests or others permitted to be on the property.
• Trespassers: Even trespassers may be protected under certain conditions, especially children under the attractive nuisance doctrine (e.g., an unfenced swimming pool).

The duty of care owed by the property owner varies depending on the type of visitor. Business owners have a higher obligation to ensure safety than homeowners.

Common Types of Premises Liability Cases

A premises liability claim can arise from many different types of accidents, including:

1. Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall injuries are among the most common premises liability cases. These accidents can occur due to:

• Wet or slippery floors
• Uneven sidewalks
• Loose carpeting or flooring
• Cluttered walkways
• Icy or snowy pathways
• Poor lighting in stairwells

2. Negligent Security

Property owners must provide adequate security in areas where crime is foreseeable. Negligent security claims may involve:

• Lack of security cameras
• Broken door locks or gates
• Insufficient lighting in parking lots
• Failure to hire security personnel in high-crime areas

3. Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Dog owners are responsible for keeping their pets under control. In California, the law holds owners strictly liable if their dog bites someone, even if the dog has no prior history of aggression.

4. Swimming Pool Accidents

Drowning and pool-related injuries can occur due to:

• Lack of fences or barriers
• Missing warning signs
• Slippery pool decks
• Unsupervised or unsafe public pools

5. Toxic Exposure Cases

Some injuries occur due to harmful chemicals or substances, including:

• Mold infestations
• Lead paint exposure
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Pesticide contamination

6. Structural Collapses and Building Code Violations

Unsafe buildings can lead to devastating injuries. Common hazards include:

• Weak or unstable staircases
• Collapsing balconies or decks
• Exposed electrical wiring
• Elevator and escalator malfunctions

If a property owner fails to comply with building codes, they may be liable for any resulting injuries.

Contact a Bakersfield Premises Liability Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one was injured due to dangerous property conditions, do not wait to take action. A Bakersfield premises liability lawyer can help you file a claim, prove negligence, and secure fair compensation.

Call Babaians Law Firm today for a free consultation.