Premises Liability Attorneys in Altoona, Pennsylvania

Have you or a loved one been injured on someone else’s property in Pennsylvania? Property owners have a responsibility to maintain safe conditions, and when they fail, the consequences can be life-altering. Slip and fall accidents, unsafe building conditions, or negligent security can leave you dealing with medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress. You shouldn’t have to bear these burdens alone.

At Goldstein Heslop Steele Clapper Oswalt & Smith, we’re here to help you pursue justice and fair compensation for your injuries. With extensive experience in personal injury cases in Altoona, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas, we’ve guided countless individuals through the legal process, making sure their voices are heard and their rights protected.

Whether you’re up against a negligent property owner or an uncooperative insurance company, we’ll fight to hold the responsible parties accountable. Let us provide the support, experience, and advocacy you deserve during this challenging time. Contact us today to learn how we can help you move forward.

What You Need to Know About Premises Liability

Premises liability cases are a significant part of personal injury law in Pennsylvania. When someone is injured on another person’s property, the owner may be held accountable if negligence is involved. Understanding the laws that govern these cases can help you determine your rights and options if you’ve been hurt.

What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility property owners or managers have to maintain safe conditions on their property. This includes businesses, residential homes, and public spaces. If a hazardous condition exists and someone is injured as a result, the property owner could be liable for damages.

In Pennsylvania, premises liability falls under personal injury law, which means the injured party must prove negligence to pursue compensation. Negligence occurs when the property owner fails to take reasonable steps to prevent harm, such as repairing a broken stair or cleaning up a spill in a timely manner.

Common Types of Premises Liability Cases

Certain scenarios are commonly associated with premises liability claims. If you’re unsure of these, it’s a great idea to brush up on these common examples. Remember, a personal injury claim can crop up at any time, just as easily as an accident affects you or a loved on. These include:

1. Slip and fall accidents: These occur when someone trips or slips due to hazards like wet floors, uneven pavement, or poor lighting.

2. Inadequate maintenance:  When property owners neglect maintenance tasks, hazards such as broken railings or malfunctioning elevators can lead to injuries.

3. Dog bites and animal attacks: Pennsylvania law holds dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their pets, especially if the owner was aware of the animal’s aggressive tendencies.

4. Swimming pool accidents: Poorly maintained or unsecured pools can lead to tragic injuries or drownings.

5. Negligent security: Inadequate security measures, such as a lack of proper lighting or functional locks, can result in assaults or robberies on the property.

Now that you know the different types of premises liability cases, it's important to know how liability can be established.

Establishing Liability in Pennsylvania

Proving a premises liability case requires demonstrating that the property owner acted negligently. What does that mean specifically? In Pennsylvania, this involves showing:

• The property owner owed a duty of care to the injured person.

• The owner failed to uphold this duty by neglecting to address a hazardous condition.

• The injury directly resulted from this negligence.

It’s essential to note that Pennsylvania uses a comparative negligence system. This means an injured party may still recover damages even if they were partially at fault, as long as their share of the blame doesn't exceed 50%.

The Duty of Care Owed to Visitors

Did you know that in Pennsylvania, property owners owe different levels of care depending on the visitor’s status? You might be wondering what statuses exist for guests. Some examples include:

• Invitees: Individuals invited onto the property for business purposes or public use, such as customers at a store, are owed the highest level of care. Property owners must inspect the premises regularly and address hazards promptly.

• Licensees: Social guests are owed a duty of care that includes warning them about known dangers.

• Trespassers: Property owners generally owe no duty of care to trespassers, with some exceptions, such as when children are involved.

Property owners have a legal and moral obligation to maintain a safe environment for visitors, taking reasonable steps to prevent harm and addressing any hazards that may arise.

What Damages Can Be Recovered?

Premises liability cases often involve significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. This can vary from case to case and is unique to the situation. Potential compensation may include:

• Medical expenses: Costs for treatments, surgeries, or rehabilitation resulting from the injury.

• Lost wages: Income lost due to time away from work during recovery.

• Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages that account for emotional distress and physical pain.

These cases can become even more challenging when disputes arise over liability or the severity of the injuries. Our team understands the stress and uncertainty these situations create, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

How We Approach Premises Liability Cases

With years of experience handling personal injury claims, we focus on helping clients secure fair compensation. Our approach starts with thoroughly investigating the incident. This includes reviewing property maintenance records, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with professionals to build a strong case.

We also take the time to explain the legal process and answer your questions, so you feel informed and confident as your case progresses. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, our goal is to advocate for your best interests.

Steps to Take After a Premises Liability Injury

If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property, taking the following steps can strengthen your claim:

• Document the scene: Take photos of the hazard that caused your injury and the surrounding area. These images will serve as crucial evidence if you need to pursue a claim or legal action later.

• Seek medical attention: Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also creates a record of your injuries. Early treatment can also prevent complications and show a direct link between the incident and your condition.

• Report the incident: Notify the property owner or manager about the injury and make sure an incident report is filed. This helps to establish a timeline of events and alerts the responsible parties to take corrective action.

• Consult an attorney: An experienced personal injury lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you understand your options. They can also make sure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

While some personal injury claims may seem straightforward, premises liability cases can involve unique challenges.

Why Premises Liability Cases Require Legal Representation

Property owners often dispute their level of responsibility, and insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts.

When you need experience you can trust in, rely on Goldstein Heslop Steele Clapper Oswalt & Smith. For over 100 years, our team has displayed the skills and determination to overcome these obstacles. We know how to gather compelling evidence and present your case in a way that highlights the property owner’s negligence.

Get Help From Experienced Attorneys

When you need a premises liability attorney, Goldstein Heslop Steele Clapper Oswalt & Smith is there for you. We serve clients in Altoona, Blair County, Tyrone, Frankstown, Holidaysburg, Williamsburg, Gallitzin, Cresson, Claysburg, Huntingdon, and Bellwood. Contact us today for a consultation.