Little Rock Premises Liability Attorney

What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility of property owners and occupiers to ensure a safe environment for visitors and guests. The property owner may be held liable if someone is injured on someone else's property due to unsafe or hazardous conditions. 

Arkansas law mandates that property owners exercise reasonable care to maintain their premises and address potential dangers promptly. This includes homes, businesses, and public spaces.

Some of the more common premises liability cases we've dealt with include:

• Slip-and-fall accidents: These occur when someone slips, trips, or falls due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or obstacles left in walkways. They are common in grocery stores, malls, and sidewalks.
• Negligent security: Property owners must provide sufficient security measures to prevent crimes. Failure to do so can lead to assaults, thefts, or other violent crimes, for which the owner can be held accountable.
• Dog bites: Owners are responsible for controlling their pets. If a dog bites or attacks someone on their property or in public spaces, the owner may be liable for the injuries and emotional trauma caused.
• Swimming pool accidents: Swimming pools require strict safety measures, such as proper fencing, warning signs, and lifeguards. Accidents caused by neglected safety protocols put the property owner at risk of a liability claim.
• Poor maintenance: This includes broken stairs, elevators, or fixtures that can lead to injuries. Property owners must conduct regular inspections and repairs to make sure their premises are hazard-free.
• Fire and electrical hazards: Faulty wiring, lack of smoke detectors, or inadequate fire exits can result in severe injuries or fatalities. Property owners must adhere to safety codes and regulations to prevent such incidents.

Who Is Responsible When a Premises Liability Injury Occurs?

Determining responsibility in a premises liability case can be complex, but understanding who may be held accountable is vital for pursuing a claim. Property owners are not always the only parties that might be liable. Several other individuals or entities can share responsibility for ensuring visitors' safety.

Some parties who could be held responsible for compensating you following an injury include:

• Property owners: The primary responsibility often falls on the property owner. They are responsible for maintaining a safe environment and addressing potential hazards.
• Property managers: Sometimes, owners hire property management companies to oversee the upkeep and safety of their premises. These managers can be liable if they fail to perform their duties properly.
• Tenants or leaseholders: In certain situations, those who lease or rent property may be responsible for maintaining the area within their control. This might include businesses renting an office or retail space.
• Contractors and maintenance workers: If an injury occurs due to poor workmanship or negligence during repairs or construction, the responsible contractors or maintenance workers could be held liable.
• Security companies: When inadequate security measures lead to injury or assault, the security company hired to protect the premises can be held accountable.

In many premises liability cases, understanding the nuances of liability can be challenging. Each scenario is unique, and pinpointing the responsible party requires a thorough investigation. At Cook & Cossio, our attorneys are dedicated to conducting comprehensive research to identify all liable parties. We work diligently to build a strong case on your behalf by scrutinizing every detail and gathering relevant evidence.