Premises Liability Lawyer Richland County

Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions for visitors, and failure to do so can result in serious injuries. A premises liability lawyer from Mann, Blake & Jackson can help victims recover compensation for accidents caused by unsafe conditions, such as inadequate lighting, hazardous walkways, or faulty equipment. Our team investigates claims, gathers evidence, and negotiates with insurance companies to protect your rights. We offer a free consultation to review your case and determine the best legal approach. Call 864-777-4262 today to discuss how our experienced attorneys can help you seek justice.

Understanding Premises Liability

Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility property owners have to ensure their property is safe for visitors. When someone is injured on another person’s property due to unsafe conditions, the property owner may be held liable for damages. Understanding how premises liability works in South Carolina can help accident victims protect their rights and pursue compensation when necessary.

Who Can Be Held Liable

In South Carolina, liability for accidents on property depends on the ownership and control of the premises. Property owners, business operators, landlords, and even tenants may be responsible if they fail to maintain safe conditions. Liability can extend to commercial properties, residential homes, and public spaces. The key factor is whether the responsible party had a duty to maintain the property and whether they breached that duty.

Duty of Care for Property Owners

Property owners owe different duties of care depending on the status of the visitor. Invitees, such as customers in a store, are owed the highest duty of care. Owners must regularly inspect the premises, fix hazards, and warn of potential dangers. Licensees, like social guests, are owed a duty to avoid causing harm, but property owners are generally not required to inspect for hidden dangers. Trespassers are owed the least protection, although property owners cannot intentionally cause them harm. Understanding your status as a visitor is important when evaluating a premises liability claim.

Common Causes of Premises Liability Accidents

Premises liability cases can arise from a variety of situations. Slip and fall accidents are among the most frequent causes. Wet floors, icy sidewalks, uneven surfaces, and poorly maintained stairs can all lead to injuries. Other causes include inadequate security, such as insufficient lighting or broken locks, which may result in assaults or thefts. Defective equipment, falling objects, and structural failures can also create dangerous conditions that give rise to liability.

Proving Negligence in Premises Liability Cases

To succeed in a premises liability claim, an injured person must show that the property owner was negligent. This typically involves proving four elements: the owner owed a duty of care, the duty was breached, the breach caused the injury, and the injury resulted in damages. Evidence such as photographs, maintenance records, surveillance footage, and witness statements can be critical in demonstrating negligence.

Role of Comparative Fault

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence system. If a visitor is partially at fault for an accident, their compensation may be reduced proportionally. For example, if a visitor slips on a wet floor while running in a store and is found 20% responsible, their recovery will be reduced by that percentage. This rule emphasizes the importance of documenting the circumstances surrounding the accident to establish the property owner’s primary responsibility.

Injuries Commonly Associated with Premises Accidents

Premises liability accidents can result in a wide range of injuries. Slip and fall accidents often lead to broken bones, sprains, back injuries, and head trauma. Inadequate security or structural failures can result in more severe injuries, including concussions, lacerations, or even life-threatening harm. Documenting medical treatment and maintaining records of expenses and lost wages is essential when pursuing a claim.

Reporting the Incident

Prompt reporting is crucial in premises liability cases. Injured visitors should notify the property owner or manager immediately. Reporting the incident creates an official record, which can help protect your rights. It is also important to seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries appear minor at first, as some conditions may worsen over time.

Premises liability cases can be complex, particularly when insurance companies or property owners dispute fault. Consulting an experienced personal injury attorney can help victims understand their rights, gather evidence, and pursue fair compensation. In Richland County, Mann, Blake & Jackson has experience handling premises liability claims. Their team can assess the circumstances of the accident, determine liability, and advocate on behalf of injured clients.

While accidents can happen unexpectedly, certain precautions can reduce the likelihood of injury. Property owners should maintain safe conditions, regularly inspect the premises, and address hazards promptly. Visitors should remain attentive to their surroundings and exercise caution in unfamiliar areas. Awareness and proactive safety measures can help protect both visitors and property owners.

Premises liability in South Carolina holds property owners accountable for unsafe conditions that lead to injuries. Understanding duty of care, proving negligence, and documenting the circumstances of an accident are essential steps for pursuing compensation. Slip and fall accidents, inadequate security, and structural hazards are common causes of injury. 

Secure Fair Compensation with a Premises Liability Attorney

Property owners are responsible for maintaining safe environments, and failure to do so can result in serious injuries. A premises liability attorney from Mann, Blake & Jackson can help victims seek compensation when accidents occur due to hazardous conditions. Our team investigates claims, identifies liable parties, and advocates for fair settlements or trial outcomes. We understand the importance of timely, thorough representation in these cases. A free consultation is available to evaluate your situation and guide you through the legal process. Contact us at 864-777-4262 to speak with an experienced attorney dedicated to protecting your rights and pursuing justice.