Homeowners are responsible for things that take place at a property, both indoors and outdoors. Understanding potential liabilities can help you avoid common personal injury cases against homeowners. Here are a few.
Slip & Falls
Slip and falls are one of the most common types of personal injury. In and around your home, there are many places where visitors might take a fall and get seriously injured. It is important that you minimize dangers by making repairs, as needed, and improving the safety of potentially dangerous areas. Dangers may include:
- Loose or Missing Handrails
- Uneven Steps in Stairways
- Deteriorated Planks in Porches and Decks
- Damaged Asphalt in Walkways
- Uneven or Degraded Pavers in Pathways and/or Patios
- Icy Walkways and Driveways During Winter
- Dark Walkways
There can also be short-term hazards, such as a power cord that crosses a patio area during outdoor barbecues. Be conscientious about safety in your home to avoid issues with slip and falls.
Outdoor Sports Activities
During the summer months, outdoor activities are another source of common personal injury lawsuits against homeowners. Trampolines are probably the biggest culprit. Zip lines are another example. In fact, there was a court case involving zip lines that we blogged about a few months ago. It’s definitely worth reading. To reduce your potential liability, be sure to add safety measures such as netting around trampolines and make sure people have the sufficient age and physical abilities to participate.
Food Poisoning
Whether you’re hosting an event outdoors or indoors, there’s likely food involved. As a host, you’re responsible for food safety. This means handling, cooking, and storing food properly to avoid food born illness and food poisoning.
Event Host Liability
There are other responsibilities that you inherit as an event host. Fights among guests, serving alcohol to minors, or intoxicated guests driving when leaving your event are all examples. If you knowingly put guests in danger or allow them to endanger others, you could be held responsible. Being a good host means ensuring people are safe both during and after your event.
Other Personal Injury Cases Against Homeowners
These are a just a few types of personal injury cases against homeowners. There are any number of other possible accidents that can occur on a property or inside of a home. Whether a homeowner is responsible for them depends on a variety of factors. Schedule an appointment with our team of Massachusetts personal injury attorneys to discuss your particular case.