Suffering an injury due to a car accident or on someone else’s property can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. If you have been injured on another individual’s premises in Oklahoma, it is crucial to understand your rights under the law. At Knight Law Firm, we specialize in handling cases of Premises Liability and aim to provide our clients with the legal support and guidance they need during such challenging times. Our experienced premises liability lawyer is dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 918-496-1200 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case with a knowledgeable attorney.
Premises Liability Laws in Oklahoma: What You Need to Know
Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners responsible for accidents and injuries that occur on their property. In Oklahoma, property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe for visitors and guests. This means they must take reasonable steps to prevent hazards that could cause harm.
Types of Premises Liability Cases
There are several types of premises liability cases that can arise in Oklahoma, including slip and fall accidents, inadequate security leading to assault or robbery, and animal attacks. In each of these cases, the property owner may be held liable if they failed to maintain a safe environment.
Proving Liability
To prove liability in a premises liability case in Oklahoma, the injured party must show that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazard that caused the injury. They must also demonstrate that the property owner failed to take reasonable steps to address the hazard or warn visitors about it.
Comparative Negligence
Oklahoma follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that if the injured party is found partially at fault for the accident, their damages will be reduced by their percentage of fault. However, as long as the injured party is less than 50% at fault, they can still recover damages in a premises liability case.
Statute of Limitations
It’s important to be aware of the statute of limitations for premises liability cases in Oklahoma. In most cases, injured parties have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the property owner. Failing to file within this time frame can result in the case being dismissed.
Seeking Legal Help
If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property in Oklahoma, it’s crucial to seek legal help as soon as possible. A premises liability attorney can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process to seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Common Types of Hazards on Commercial Properties
Uneven Surfaces
One common hazard that can pose a risk on commercial properties is uneven surfaces. These can include cracked sidewalks, potholes in parking lots, or uneven flooring inside buildings. Uneven surfaces can easily cause trips and falls, leading to injuries for employees, customers, or visitors. Property owners should regularly inspect and maintain their grounds to ensure that all surfaces are even and free from hazards.
Slippery Floors
Slippery floors are another common hazard on commercial properties, especially in areas with high foot traffic or where spills are common. Wet floors, grease spills in kitchens, or even recently mopped surfaces can all contribute to slippery conditions. Property owners should have proper signage in place to warn others of slippery floors and promptly clean up any spills to prevent accidents.
Improper Lighting
Insufficient or improper lighting can create hazardous conditions on commercial properties, especially in parking lots, stairwells, or poorly lit hallways. Poor lighting can obscure obstacles in pathways, making it difficult for individuals to navigate safely. Property owners should ensure that all areas of their property are well-lit to enhance visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.
Electrical Hazards
Electrical hazards are another potential danger on commercial properties, particularly in older buildings or those with outdated wiring. Exposed wires, overloaded circuits, or malfunctioning electrical appliances can all lead to fires or electrocution. Property owners should conduct regular inspections of their electrical systems and address any issues promptly to prevent accidents.
Inadequate Security
Inadequate security measures can also pose a hazard on commercial properties, putting employees, customers, and property at risk. This can include lack of surveillance cameras, outdated locks, or insufficient lighting in parking lots. Property owners should invest in proper security measures, such as surveillance systems, alarms, and secure entryways, to deter criminal activity and ensure the safety of those on the property.
Steps to Take After an Accident on Someone Else’s Property
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
The first and most important step to take after an accident on someone else’s property is to seek medical attention. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to get checked out by a healthcare professional. Injuries sustained in accidents can sometimes manifest hours or even days later, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Your health should be your top priority.
Report the Accident
After seeking medical attention, the next step is to report the accident to the property owner or manager. Make sure to document the details of the accident as accurately as possible, including the date, time, location, and any contributing factors. Reporting the accident is important for both documentation purposes and for the property owner to be aware of the incident.
Document the Scene
If you are physically able, it’s essential to document the scene of the accident. Take photos of the area where the accident occurred, including any hazards or dangerous conditions that may have contributed to the incident. If there were any witnesses present, try to obtain their contact information as well.
Get Legal Advice
After seeking medical attention, reporting the accident, and documenting the scene, it’s important to seek legal advice. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complexities of filing a claim against the property owner or manager. They can also help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and any other damages incurred.
Follow Through with Treatment
It’s important to follow through with any recommended medical treatment for your injuries. This includes attending follow-up appointments, undergoing physical therapy, and following your healthcare provider’s instructions for recovery. By following through with treatment, you not only prioritize your health and well-being but also provide documentation of your injuries for your legal case.
Stay in Communication
Throughout the process of seeking compensation for your injuries, it’s crucial to stay in communication with your healthcare providers, legal team, and any other parties involved. Ensure that you provide any requested documentation or information in a timely manner and stay informed about the progress of your case. Communication is key to a successful resolution.
By following these steps after an accident on someone else’s property, you can protect your health, rights, and best interests. Seek medical attention, report the accident, document the scene, get legal advice, follow through with treatment, and stay in communication. Your well-being and recovery are of the utmost importance.
Choose an Experienced Premises Liability Attorney
Seeking legal guidance after a car accident or injury on someone else’s property is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Premises liability cases can be complex, but with the help of experienced attorneys like those at Knight Law Firm, navigating the legal process becomes much easier. If you have suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence, do not hesitate to contact Knight Law Firm at 918-496-1200 for a free consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and fight for the justice you deserve.
