Premises Liability in California:
Know Your Rights After an Injury on Someone Else’s Property

From slippery grocery store floors to broken apartment staircases, dangerous property conditions can lead to serious injuries. Under California law, property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe. If they don’t, and someone gets hurt, they may be held legally responsible.

At WernikLaw, we help injury victims across California understand their rights, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation they deserve.

Understanding Premises Liability in California

Premises liability is a legal doctrine that holds property owners and occupiers responsible for maintaining reasonably safe conditions. These cases can arise from:

• Slip and fall accidents (wet floors, loose rugs, uneven sidewalks)

• Poor lighting or broken handrails in stairwells

• Falling objects in stores or warehouses

• Dog bites and animal attacks

• Inadequate security that leads to assault or theft

• Unsafe construction zones or neglected maintenance
   

In California, property owners aren’t automatically liable just because an injury occurred. To hold them accountable, you must prove:

1. The defendant owned, leased, occupied, or controlled the property;

2. The defendant was negligent in the use or maintenance of the property;

3. That you (the plaintiff) suffered harm; and

4. The defendant’s negligence was a substantial factor in causing that harm.

What to Do After a Premises Injury in California

If you’re injured on someone else’s property, take these steps to protect your health and your legal claim:

1. Seek medical care: Even if you feel okay, some injuries, including head trauma and internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away.

2. Report the incident: Notify the property owner, manager, or store employee and request a copy of the incident report.

3. Take photos and gather evidence: Document the hazard, your injuries, and the scene. Collect witness names and contact info.

4. Keep all documentation: Save your medical bills, treatment records, insurance communications, and receipts.

5. Contact a California personal injury attorney: The earlier you speak with a lawyer, the better. We can help you understand if the property owner violated their legal duty and what your case may be worth.

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Compensation Available in California Premises Liability Cases

If you were injured due to a property owner’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills (past and future treatment)

• Lost income or reduced earning ability

• Pain and suffering

• Property damage (if applicable)

• Emotional distress

• Permanent disability or disfigurement

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We work with medical professionals, safety experts, and investigators to build a strong case for full and fair compensation.

Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side

In premises liability claims, you may be contacted by the property owner's insurance company. Be careful– insurance adjusters often:

• Minimize your injuries

• Claim you were at fault or partially to blame

• Offer quick settlements that don’t cover future expenses

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Don’t sign anything or accept a settlement before consulting an experienced attorney. We can handle communications with the insurer so you don’t have to.

Talk to a California Premises Liability Attorney for Free

If you or a loved one has been hurt due to unsafe property conditions, don’t wait. Contact WernikLaw for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you take the next step forward.