The results are in, and the findings from surveys are very revealing. As we head into the 2022 holiday season, it’s clear that most Americans are no longer concerned about contracting Covid-19. With that in mind, we’re seeing a massive increase in in-person activities, including family and friends gathering together at each other’s homes.
While this is an excellent sign for the overall wellness of society, there are hidden dangers you need to be aware of. Most notably, homeowners need to know the law surrounding premises liability in New Jersey and New York. Why? Property owners have a legal duty to provide for the safety and care of their guests, so if an accident and injury happen, the homeowner might be held responsible.
Do you need to learn more before your next gathering? Get informed about some of the most common hazards that can lead to a trip and fall below. We’ll also go over some hidden hazards to be aware of and how to cope with an accident if one does occur.
Common Hazards That Can Lead to a Trip and Fall
Homeowners should get informed about the most common hazards that can lead to a fall. Here are some common things to watch out for:
- Snowy, icy walkways or sidewalks
- Cracked floors or sidewalks
- Damaged stairs
- Potholes
- Obstructions
- Wet, slippery floors
- Ripped carpet
Any of these factors could easily cause a harmful accident, so be sure to address these hazards before inviting anyone to your property.
Hidden Hazards You Need to Know About
One common hidden hazard you need to watch out for is drop-down areas. If you have areas in your home where the floor suddenly drops down a step, then that area can become a hazard. Single steps that don’t have any posted warnings can lead to a serious fall, so it might be in your best interests to put up a small sign or warn all your guests about any hidden step-down areas to prevent an accident.
Another hidden hazard is poor lighting, especially outdoors. When it gets dark, it’s much harder to traverse an area, especially if you’re a guest on someone else’s property. If possible, then make sure you provide enough lighting indoors and outdoors to prevent any falls.
Understanding Premises Liability Laws in NY and NJ
Premises liability laws in New York and New Jersey are clear. Property owners must do their due diligence to ensure their property is free from obvious dangers that could harm people who visit the property uninvited, such as mail carriers and other delivery drivers.. If an accident occurs, the property owner might be responsible if it’s determined they were negligent in providing a safe environment.
How to Handle a Premises Liability Accident the Right Way
A premises liability accident can be both devastating and divisive. Make sure to avoid any more conflict than is necessary by getting informed regarding the law. If a property owner invites you to your property, fails to create a safe space, and you get hurt, there’s a great chance that you can seek a claim to help you pay for your losses.
If you’d like to have a premises liability attorney look over the details of your situation and help you decide how to move forward, then we can help. Contact the Law Office of Peter Briskin, P.C. by filling out our online form today to start talking with an experienced personal injury lawyer.