Premises Liability

Injured on Unsafe Property?

When you’re hurt on someone else’s property, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Medical bills, missed work, and uncertainty about your legal rights often follow. In California, property owners have a legal responsibility to keep their spaces safe for visitors. If you’ve suffered an injury in a place like a grocery store, apartment complex, or parking lot, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim.

Accidents on another’s property can take many forms. From slip and fall incidents to injuries caused by faulty stairs or poor lighting, premises liability covers a wide range of situations. Knowing how California law protects you can help you make informed choices about your next steps.

You can also read more about similar injury claims, such as slip and fall or dog bites, if your situation involves those types of accidents.

What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability is the legal responsibility a property owner or occupier has to maintain a reasonably safe environment. If a hazardous condition exists—like a wet floor, broken handrail, or uneven walkway—and someone is injured as a result, the property owner may be held liable.

California law applies to both private and public property. This means liability can arise at businesses, rental properties, private homes, or public spaces. The circumstances of your visit (customer, tenant, guest, etc.) can affect your rights.

Learn more about related topics, including common premises liability injuries and compensation.

California Laws Protecting You

California Civil Code Section 1714 makes all property owners and possessors responsible for injuries caused by their lack of ordinary care in managing their property. To bring a successful claim, you generally must show:

• The property owner (or occupier) was negligent in maintaining the property
• That negligence was a substantial factor in causing your injuries

California follows a “comparative fault” rule. If you were partly at fault (for example, not paying attention to warning signs), your compensation may be reduced—but you can still recover damages.

Premises liability is just one area of personal injury law in California. If your injury involved a vehicle, see car accidents or bicycle accidents.

What Are Property Owners Required to Do?

Under California law, property owners and those who control property must:

• Regularly inspect their property for hazards
• Fix dangerous conditions or provide clear warnings
• Take reasonable steps to protect visitors from foreseeable harm

This obligation applies to businesses, landlords, and even homeowners. For example, a store must mop up spills promptly, while a landlord should repair broken steps. If a hazard cannot be fixed immediately, warning signs or barriers should be posted.

If you’re a tenant or visitor, your status may determine the extent of protection owed. If you’re unsure, you can learn more from our what qualifies as a premises liability claim? article.

Steps to Take After an Injury

If you’re hurt on someone else’s property in California, here’s what you can do to protect your rights:

• Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries
• Report the incident to the property owner or manager and ask for a written report
• Take photos of the dangerous condition and your injuries
• Get names and contact information of witnesses
• Keep copies of medical bills, reports, and correspondence
• Avoid making statements about fault on the scene

For more detailed guidance, see how to prove property owner negligence.

What Damages Can You Recover?

If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Rehabilitation costs

The value of your case depends on the severity of your injuries and other factors. If you have questions about your rights, contact us today for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Premises Liability in California

What is a premises liability claim in California? A premises liability claim in California is a legal action against a property owner or occupier whose negligence led to unsafe conditions that caused injury to a visitor, tenant, or customer.

How long do I have to file a premises liability lawsuit in California? You generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a premises liability lawsuit in California. There can be exceptions, especially with government-owned properties.

Does comparative fault apply to premises liability cases? Yes, California uses comparative fault, so if you share some responsibility for your injury, your compensation may be reduced proportionally.

What should I do if I’m injured on someone’s property? Seek medical attention, report the incident, document the scene and injuries, gather witness information, and consult a lawyer before making statements to insurers.

Are landlords responsible for tenant injuries? Landlords in California can be liable if an injury results from unsafe property conditions they knew or should have known about and failed to fix.

Reach Out for Help

Facing a premises liability injury can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. The attorneys at Attain Law are experienced in California injury claims and ready to guide you through your recovery. We can explain your rights, help you gather evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call us at (888) 970-8627 or contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to support you every step of the way.