Hackensack Premises Liability Lawyer
A property owner has an obligation to keep the premises reasonably safe for visitors. When a failure to follow this obligation causes an injury, they are responsible for covering damages.
If you were hurt when visiting private or public property, you can seek compensation. Choosing to work with a skilled Hackensack premises liability lawyer could improve your chances of recovering a fair amount.
Status of the Visitor
The property owner’s liability depends on the status of a person visiting the property. In some situations, the liability is higher, while in others it nearly does not exist.
Invitees
If the property owner invites a person to their home or business, they owe them the highest duty of care. It means that the owner must inspect the premises regularly and take care of all the known hazards. If something may pose a danger to the visitor, they must post a clear warning. For example, put up a “wet floor” sign.
Licensees
Licensees are people who visit the property for social reasons that do not involve mutual benefit for the owner and the visitor. For example, a friend stopping by for a cup of tea. The owner does not need to fix all the hazards on the property the second they learn about the visit. However, they must warn the visitor about possible dangers.
Trespassers
Trespassers are people who visit the property without permission. Generally, property owners owe the least duty of care to trespassers. However, there are exceptions for child trespassers.
The property owner must ensure that their property is safe from hazards that might attract children. Some examples are swimming pools and trampolines.
A skilled property injury lawyer in Hackensack can help demonstrate the victim’s visiting status and support their right to compensation.
Evidence in a Premises Liability Case
To prove the right damage recovery, the injured person must back their statements with evidence. Common proof in such cases includes:
- Photographs and Videos: Visual evidence from the scene, such as pictures of a broken handrail, wet floor, or icy walkway.
- Witness Statements: Testimonies from people who saw the accident happen, and also people who can confirm the presence of dangerous conditions on the property.
- Medical Records: Detailed medical documentation that connects the injury directly to the accident.
- Surveillance Footage: Security camera recordings that capture the moment of the accident or show how long a hazard existed.
- Maintenance and Inspection Logs: Documents that show whether the property owner regularly checked for hazards and took appropriate steps to address them.
An attorney may also hire safety professionals as expert witnesses. They can provide credible opinions on whether the property owner acted reasonably.
Filing a Claim
To file a premises liability claim, the injured person has to collect all the necessary evidence. An experienced premises liability attorney in Hackensack could evaluate the situation, find liable parties (who are not always obvious), and initiate legal action.
In New Jersey, the victim has only two years from the time of the incident to file a lawsuit. Delaying the process could hurt the case.
Consult an Experienced Premises Liability Claims Attorney in Hackensack Today
If you sustained injuries while visiting someone’s property, you have the right to file a claim. A competent Hackensack premises liability lawyer from Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq could help you receive the money you deserve. Call us for an in-depth consultation today.
