Encino Premises Liability Lawyer

Property Owner Responsibilities in Encino, CA

Under California Civil Code 1714(a), property owners and occupiers are legally obligated to use “ordinary care” to maintain their premises in reasonably safe conditions. This duty applies to any hazards they know about or should have known about through regular inspections.

Property owners must take reasonable steps to prevent injury to lawful visitors. They may be liable for any resulting injuries if they fail to fix or warn about known dangers. This law underscores the importance of proactive property management in protecting public safety.

What Must Be Proven to Win a Premises Liability Claim?

To succeed in a premises liability claim, the following must be established. 

• Duty of care: The property owner or occupier owed you a duty to maintain a safe environment.
• Breach of duty: They failed to address or warn about unsafe conditions they knew about or should have known about through reasonable care.
• Causation: Their negligence directly caused your injury.
• Damages: You suffered actual harm, such as physical injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

Our experienced attorney can help you gather evidence, such as photographs, property maintenance logs, witness testimony, and expert opinions, to meet this legal burden.

Who Can Be Sued in an Encino Premises Liability Claim?

Depending on the circumstances of your case, potentially liable parties in these cases can include the following.

• Residential property owners: Homeowners may be held accountable for injuries occurring on their property due to hazards like broken stairs, slippery walkways, or dog attacks.
• Commercial property owners: Businesses, such as stores, hotels, or restaurants, must maintain their premises to ensure customer safety. Failing to fix or warn about dangerous conditions can make them liable. Poor or negligent security on commercial properties can also lead to criminal attacks. 
• Landlords and property managers: Tenants and visitors injured in common areas of rental properties, such as hallways or parking lots, can sue landlords or property managers for neglecting maintenance.
• Government entities: Injuries caused by unsafe conditions on public sidewalks, parks, or government buildings may result in claims against a city, county, or other public agency.