What Is Premises Liability in California?

Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility of property owners, landlords, managers, or public entities, to maintain a reasonably safe environment for the public. Under the California Civil Code, property owners must take steps to identify and repair hazardous conditions, or adequately warn guests of potential dangers.

Examples of Premises Liability Cases

California public entities, property owners, businesses, landlords, homeowners, and property managers can face costly claims when accidents occur on their premises. Our law office provides strategic defense representation in premises liability matters throughout California, including:

• slip-and-fall and trip-and-fall claims, 
• dog bite cases,
• negligent security allegations, 
• swimming pool accidents,
• elevator and escalator malfunctions,
• injuries from falling objects or structural collapse, and
• other dangerous condition claims 

Types of Damages in Premises Liability

We understand that a single claim can create significant financial and emotional hardship. Damages in a premise liability case may amount to six figures depending on: 

• the severity of the injuries (for example: catastrophic injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), permanent scarring and disfigurement)
• the past and future medical costs
• long term costs of ongoing medical and/or therapeutic care
• pain and suffering, including emotional distress
• loss of past earnings and future earning capacity
• wrongful death claims

Premises Liability Potential Defenses

There are numerous potential defenses to premises liability in California including but not limited to: 

• Lack of Notice (No Actual or Constructive Knowledgee)
• No Dangerous Condition Existed
• Comparative Negligence
• Open and Obvious Condition
• Assumption of Risk

Often, property owners subject to a premises liability claim may seek coverage for their legal defense costs via insurance such as:

• General Commercial Insurance
• Worker’s Compensation
• Homeowner Insurance
• Renters Insurance
• Umbrella Insurance 

There are however many instances where clients seek the assistance of independent legal counsel  to defend them against premises liability claims.  From coverage dispute, policy exclusions, and reservation of rights to the simple fact that a client wants additional peace of mind secured through independent legal counsel, our team has been ready to offer experienced representation in premises liability defense. 

Contact The Law Offices of Ali Taheripour

Our team works closely with clients, from individual homeowners and tenants, to small businesses and prominent California corporations, to thoroughly investigate premises liability claims, challenge unfounded allegations, and develop effective defense strategies designed to achieve the most favorable resolution in the matter. Whether you are facing a pre-litigation claim or a lawsuit, we are committed to protecting your interests at every stage of the case.