RI Personal Injury Attorney’s Guide to Handling Premises Liability Claims

by Saikon Gbehan Isijola, Esq

Injuries and accidents that incite premises liability cases, such as slip and falls or dog bites, are common yet unpredictable events that can occur anywhere and to anyone, regardless of the weather or environment. Contrary to popular belief, these accidents are often not the fault of the victim. Here’s what you should know about premises liability in Providence, RI, as well as the steps you should take if you find yourself a victim of such an incident.

Understanding Your Rights

Premises liability is a legal doctrine that holds property owners and occupiers responsible for accidents and injuries that occur on their property. This responsibility covers maintaining a safe environment for visitors. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

To establish such a claim, you must prove the following:

• The property owner had a duty to keep the property safe.
• The property owner breached that duty by failing to warn you about or fix a hazard.
• You were on the property with the owner’s permission.
• Your injury was caused by the hazard.
• Identifying Premises Liability Hazards

Several types of hazards may warrant premise liability cases, including but not limited to:

• Slip and Fall Accidents on Wet or Icy Surfaces
• Defective Stairs or Railings
• Uneven or Broken Sidewalks
• Holes in the Ground
• Exposed Wires or Pipes
• Dangerous Animals
• Unsecured Objects

Reporting the Incident: Making It Official

It’s essential to report the incident to the relevant authorities, such as business owners, managers, or homeowners responsible for the location of your injury. They may provide you with an incident report detailing the event, which can be a valuable piece of evidence in your case.

Immediate Medical Attention: Treatment is Vital

If you’ve experienced an injury you believe warrants premises liability cases, your priority should be to seek medical help immediately. These accidents can cause severe injuries which may require extensive medical treatment. Consulting a physician promptly is not only vital for your health but also crucial in establishing a link between the inciting incident and your injuries. This connection is a key element in premises liability cases, as it provides concrete evidence that the hazard directly caused your injuries.

Gathering Evidence: The Foundation of Your Case

Collecting evidence is the next critical step in building a strong premises liability case. Start by taking photos of the accident site, noting the exact location, time, and date. Witness information is invaluable, so gather names, phone numbers, and addresses of anyone who saw the incident or was involved. If witnesses are unavailable, request video surveillance footage from nearby businesses, as this can demonstrate how long the hazard existed and the specifics of your injuries. Remember, surveillance footage is often only stored for a short period, so act quickly. Additionally, preserve the clothing and shoes you were wearing during the incident, as they can serve as important evidence later on.

Documenting Your Experience: A Personal Account

Beyond medical records, maintaining a journal about your injury-related experiences can be beneficial. This personal account helps your attorney understand the full impact of the incident on your life and can be a powerful tool in your case. Additionally, keep all receipts and records of expenses related to your injuries, as undocumented expenses might not be compensated.

Consult a Rhode Island Personal Injury Attorney

Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer will help you further understand your rights, ensure essential documentation, and advocate for your best interests and financial compensation.

As an experienced personal injury attorney based in Providence, RI, Saikon Gbehan Isijola is dedicated to helping you navigate these challenging situations your case.  Saikon Gbehan Isijola is dedicated to helping you navigate your case.

Blog Home