When you visit a store, home, or government building, you are likely not expecting to leave the premises injured. Unfortunately, this does happen due to the negligence of the property owner. If your injury is the result of negligence, you may be able to file a premises liability claim. However, it is essential to know that you only have a certain amount of time to file before you can no longer pursue compensation. Keep reading to learn about the statute of limitations and discover how a Tom Green County, Texas personal injury lawyer can help you navigate this process.
What Are the Most Common Reasons for a Premises Liability Claim?
Whenever a property owner does not uphold the standard of care they owe those on the premises, the injured party may file a claim for damages. This ensures that property owners comply with the safety standards the law imposes to ensure there are no dangers or hazards for visitors. Unfortunately, there are a number of ways one can be injured by a property owner’s negligence. Common examples include the following:
- Unsafe stairwells and steps
- Dog attacks
- Failure to secure shelving or other fixtures
- Exposure to hazardous materials
- Unsafe floorings, such as broken tiles or loose carpeting
While these are not the only instances in which someone can be hurt on a property, these are some of the most common. Again, it is critical to note that only those injured due to a property owner’s negligence are eligible for compensation. If you trip and fall over your own untied shoelaces, you will not be eligible.
If you were hurt while trespassing on a property, you are not eligible to receive compensation. This is because property owners have no legal obligation under Texas law to protect those who trespass from hazards or injuries.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim Following an Injury?
In Texas, those injured due to unsafe conditions on property generally have two years to file a premises liability claim. This includes residential and commercial properties. However, this does not include any government buildings or property.
If your injury happens on government property, you must file a notice of claim within a specific time frame. Unfortunately, this varies from municipality to municipality. Generally, you will have six months under the Texas Tort Claim Acts to file the notice of claim after sustaining an injury on government property. For example, if you slip and fall due to an unmarked wet spot on the floor of a municipal building, you will likely only have six months to file this notice.
When injured due to a negligent property owner, you may incur astronomical medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost income. At the Mathis Law Firm, we believe you should receive compensation for the injuries you endured caused by another party’s negligence. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you through this challenging time.