Slip and Fall Law Colorado Springs
Every business owner knows if someone slips and falls on their property, they could be facing a lawsuit. There is, however, more to commercial premises liability than this, and having a better understanding of the topic can highlight ways to keep employees and patrons safe, while avoiding a potentially detrimental lawsuit. If you’ve been injured because of unsafe property conditions, a Colorado Springs commercial premises liability attorney can inform you of your options, and how best to proceed.
Commercial Premises Liability 101
Business owners are responsible for whoever steps inside their establishment, from customers and employees to vendors and solicitors- regardless of whether they rent or own the building. Under premises liability law, even trespassers have limited protection.
This legal duty is referred to as “premises liability.” If business owners fail in this duty, they can be held financially responsible for the medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering incurred by anyone who is injured when an accident takes place.
In some cases, landlords can be sued for negligence. However, most landlords will insist that tenants sign rental agreements with clauses that require them to assume full responsibility for safely maintaining the property.
Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Injuries
- Perhaps one of the most common causes of slips and falls has to do with wet floors. Slippery floors caused by rain, snow or ice being tracked in through the store front can be a significant hazard. Businesses must keep snow and ice removed from parking lots and walkways, as well as keep rugs and mats used for absorbing excess water lying flat. Snags in carpeting, holes in floors, inclines, and freshly mopped or waxed floors must be clearly marked until they can be repaired or otherwise attended to.
- Business owners must provide safe, well-maintained and well-lit steps and stairs for access to their place of business. The stairs should be kept free of debris with proper handrails, and otherwise up to code.
- Improperly maintained escalators and elevators can be another source of hazards. To avoid liability issues, business owners should keep escalators and elevators in good working order without any tripping hazards or loose pieces that could snag clothing. Handrails and level walking surfaces should also be provided.
While slip and fall accidents are the most common, many different scenarios fall under the category of premises liability. Some others include, a patron or an employee assaulting another visitor, someone being injured by a piece of equipment or merchandise, or hazardous substances running off your property and onto a neighboring property. Essentially, if steps could have been taken to prevent the injury or damage from happening, a business or owner could possibly be held responsible.
Contact a Colorado Springs Premises Liability Attorney
If you’ve been injured because of unsafe property conditions, contact a Colorado Springs premises liability lawyer at Patrick Collins ESQ, LLC immediately. We may be able to recover fair compensation for you injuries that can help you stay on top of your financial responsibilities while you heal. Call (719) 622-1352, or fill out the confidential contact form on our website.