What Duties Do Homeowners Have to Persons Visiting Their Property? What Compensation Can You Get When You’ve Been Hurt?
In Texas, as in all states, there are certain conditions under which homeowners may be liable for injuries suffered by someone visiting their home, whether it be a social guest or someone there on business. What are the duties that are owed? Do they differ based on whether the visitor has been invited by the homeowner or has come of his or her own accord?
The Prevalence of Property-Related Injury in Texas and Nationwide
According to statistics compiled by the National Security Council, residential property accidents account for an average of over 150,000 injuries every year. Many of those accidents involve slips, trips and falls on wet floors, broken or defective steps, stairs or pavement, or otherwise poorly maintained property.
When a Homeowner May Be Liable for Injuries
In Texas, homeowners have a duty to maintain their home and property in ways that minimize the risk of injury to anyone legally visiting the property. Such a duty requires, at a minimum, that the homeowner either repair any known dangers or reasonably notify visitors or the risk.
The duty varies, based on the “status” of the visitor:
- Invitees—An invitee is a person who comes onto property for his or her benefit or for mutual benefit, typically for business purposes. Examples in a private home include a traveling salesperson, a contractor or repair technician. Homeowners owe the highest duty to invitees, requiring that they regularly monitor and inspect the property for potential dangers.
- Licensees—A licensee typically visits property for social purposes or personal convenience. Examples include party guests or friends.
- Trespassers—There is generally no duty owed to trespassers, other than the duty to not intentionally inflict harm
Let Attorney Michael R. De La Paz Protect Your Rights When You Have Been Hurt in a Texas Premises Liability Accident
At the Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz, we have more than 26 years of experience protecting the rights of personal injury victims in Harlingen, McAllen, Brownsville and Houston, across Texas and nationwide. We have a comprehensive understanding of the types of injuries commonly suffered in any type of property-related accident, and know how to effectively present your case to a judge and jury, if necessary. We will use our considerable experience, skill, knowledge and resources to help you get the outcome you want. Free call, text or chat, 24 hours a day, seven days a week–https://delapazlaw.com/.
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