Our legal expertise allows us to handle premises liability cases, also known as slip and fall cases, in the Philadelphia PA area, including Doylestown, Media, West Chester, and Norristown as well as Camden and western New Jersey.
We had an 80-year-old client, who was shopping at a local grocery store, and had parked her car in a garage. While walking from her car, she tripped over one of those cement lane dividers that are often in front of parking spots, and injured herself significantly. She went to five other attorneys, who were not interested in handling the case because it was too complex and difficult for them.
Essentially we had to prove that, although there was a parking stop, her tripping over it was not her fault, but was the fault of the property owner. That can be a complex issue.
We were able to achieve a positive result for her because we had some engineers come in and determine that, because the cement was the same color as the parking stop, it should have been illuminated more clearly — that is, it should have been painted a different color, and should have been easier to see.
We were able to prevail in the case because we had excellent experts that were engineers, and we also took several demonstrative videos, and as a consequence of the case settled for a substantial amount of money.
Why legal expertise matters in premises liability cases?
Legal expertise in premises liability cases is crucial because these claims often involve complex issues of property law, negligence, and liability. Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility of property owners or occupiers to maintain a safe environment for visitors. When someone is injured due to unsafe conditions—such as a slip and fall, poor lighting, uneven flooring, or inadequate security—proving fault is not always straightforward. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether the property owner failed to meet their duty of care and whether that failure directly caused the injury, which are essential components in building a strong case.
A skilled premises liability lawyer understands how to gather and present critical evidence to support a claim. This includes collecting surveillance footage, maintenance records, witness statements, and any documentation of previous complaints or hazards on the property. Attorneys also know how to identify and counter common defense tactics, such as claims that the injured person was trespassing, ignored posted warnings, or caused their own injury through negligence. Without legal expertise, injured individuals may find it difficult to prove liability or recover fair compensation.
In many premises liability cases, the legal standards can vary depending on the status of the visitor—whether they were an invitee, licensee, or trespasser. Legal professionals are trained to assess how these classifications impact the property owner’s responsibility and adjust their legal strategy accordingly. They can also handle negotiations with insurance companies, who often attempt to downplay injuries or offer lowball settlements. An attorney’s understanding of case law and experience with similar claims can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable outcome.
Beyond just securing compensation, legal representation in premises liability cases helps ensure accountability and promotes safer conditions for others. Property owners are more likely to address hazards and improve maintenance practices when held responsible for injuries caused by negligence. In this way, legal expertise not only protects the rights of the injured but also contributes to public safety. Whether the case involves a commercial property, residential building, or public space, having a knowledgeable attorney can be the key to justice and fair recovery. If you or someone you know if in need of a premises liability attorney, contact us today.
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