Dallas, TX Premises Liability Attorney

Experienced Premises Liability Lawyer Investigating Dangerous Property Conditions in Dallas, Texas

Whether on public or private property, property owners have a general duty to keep their premises safe. While some accidents are unavoidable, others may be the result of a property owner's clear negligence. In cases like these, the representation of a Dallas, Texas premises liability attorney can prove to be especially valuable.

At the Law Office of J. Gregory Marks, we can help you pursue real compensation for an injury caused by a negligent property owner. Attorney J. Gregory Marks has decades of experience in personal injury law, and he has maintained a 10.0 Avvo rating from satisfied clients, underscoring his commitment to helping people in need.

What Is the Duty of Care in a Texas Premises Liability Case?

Property owners and occupiers in Texas owe a duty of care to people who come onto their property, but the extent of that duty depends on the visitor's legal status. An invitee, such as a customer at a store or a guest at a place of business, is owed the highest duty of care. The property owner must inspect the premises for dangers, repair or warn of hazards that are or should be known, and exercise reasonable care to keep the property safe.

A licensee, such as a social guest, is owed a lesser duty. The property owner must warn of known dangers that are not obvious, but is not required to actively inspect for hazards that have not yet been discovered.

Trespassers are generally owed the least protection, though exceptions exist, particularly when children are involved. Establishing which category applies to your situation is one of the first steps in building a premises liability claim, since it shapes what the property owner was actually required to do.

Common Accidents That Can Lead to Premises Liability Claims

Premises liability claims arise from a wide range of dangerous conditions. Slip and fall accidents are among the most common, often caused by wet floors, spilled liquids, uneven flooring, or poor lighting. Trip and fall accidents can result from cracked sidewalks, loose carpeting, or debris left in walkways.

Falling object accidents occur when merchandise, equipment, or building materials are not properly secured and fall on a visitor. Staircases and elevators that are poorly maintained can also create serious hazards.

Negligent security is another important category of premises liability claims. Property owners who fail to provide adequate lighting, working locks, security cameras, or sufficient staffing in areas with a known history of criminal activity can be held liable when a visitor is assaulted, robbed, or otherwise harmed as a result. Swimming pool accidents, dog bites, and amusement park injuries round out some of the other common scenarios that fall under premises liability law.

What Damages Can You Be Paid for in a Dallas Premises Liability Claim?

A successful premises liability claim can account for the full range of losses caused by the property owner's negligence. Recoverable damages can include:

• Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, and ongoing treatment
• Lost wages from time missed at work during recovery
• Reduced earning capacity if the injury affects long-term ability to work
• Property damage related to the incident
• Pain and suffering caused by the injury
• Physical impairment or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

The specific value of a claim depends on the severity of the injury and the strength of the evidence showing that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazard that caused it.

Contact a Dallas Premises Liability Lawyer Today

Property owners have a responsibility to keep their premises reasonably safe for the people who visit them, and they should be held accountable when they fail to do so. Contact our Dallas, Texas premises liability attorney or call 214-427-4417 to schedule your free consultation with the Law Office of J. Gregory Marks.