Renton Premises Liability Lawyer

Assisting Clients With Premises Liability Claims in Western Washington

If you were injured on someone else's property due to unsafe or defective conditions, you should not have to suffer the consequences on your own. Property owners have a responsibility to keep their premises safe for visitors, guests, customers, and tenants. When they fail to meet this obligation, and someone gets hurt, they can be held accountable for the resulting damages.

At Galileo Law, PLLC, our Renton premises liability lawyer, is ready to fight for you. Our goal is to make sure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries and that no one tries to shift the blame to you. Reach out to our firm right away—you only have three years to file a premises liability lawsuit in Washington State. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to sue for damages. 

Call (206) 745-0711 or contact us online today to learn how our premises liability attorney in Renton can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Your initial consultation is completely free. 

What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability is a legal term for a concept that exists in every state. It holds property owners and managers responsible for the safety of their premises and anyone who enters the property.

This means that if someone is injured on your property, you can be held liable for the damages if the injury was caused by a dangerous condition that you could have reasonably prevented. Premises liability claims are typically brought against property owners and occupiers, such as homeowners, landlords, schools, businesses, and government entities.

Examples of Premises Liability

Property damage and personal injury can result from a wide range of incidents that occur on someone else's property. 

These include:

• Car, motorcycle, and other vehicle accidents in private parking lots 
• Falls, including slip and fall accidents and falls from heights 
• Swimming pool accidents, including accidental drowning 
• Amusement park and theme park accidents 
• Exposure to harmful substances, such as toxic mold or chemicals 
• Violent crime, often as a result of negligent or inadequate security 
• Dog bites and other animal attacks 

When you are injured due to unsafe or defective conditions on someone else’s property, you have the right to fight for fair compensation for your injuries and damages. At Galileo Law, PLLC, we know how to effectively navigate the legal system, and we have the resources to advocate tirelessly for you. 

What is the Statute of Limitations for Premises Liability Claim in Washington?

Every state has a statute of limitations that sets a time limit on when you can file a personal injury claim. The clock usually starts on the date on which the incident occurs, and you will have a limited amount of time to submit your claim. If you miss the deadline, you will likely be unable to bring your lawsuit at all.

In Washington, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years. This means that you will have three years from the date of the incident to file a premises liability lawsuit against the property owner or another liable party.

Common Injuries in Premises Liability Accidents

Common injuries may include the following:

• Slip and Fall Injuries: These are among the most frequent types of premises liability claims. Wet floors, uneven surfaces, and poorly maintained walkways can lead to serious falls, resulting in sprains, fractures, and head injuries.
• Trip and Fall Injuries: Similar to slip and fall incidents, tripping over hazards such as loose carpeting, uneven pavement, or clutter can cause significant injuries, including broken bones and concussions.
• Dog Bites: Property owners can be held responsible for injuries caused by their pets, especially if they failed to restrain them properly or were aware of their aggressive behavior.
• Inadequate Security Injuries: If a property lacks proper security measures, such as adequate lighting or surveillance, it can lead to assaults or robberies, resulting in serious physical and emotional trauma.
• Drowning Accidents: Swimming pool owners must maintain safe conditions. Negligence in pool maintenance or supervision can result in drowning or near-drowning incidents.
• Burn Injuries: Properties that do not adhere to fire safety codes can lead to serious burn injuries in the event of a fire or explosion.
• Electrocutions: Unsafe wiring, lack of maintenance, or failure to address electrical hazards can cause serious injuries or fatalities.
• Exposure to Toxic Chemicals: Property owners are responsible for ensuring that hazardous materials are properly handled and that tenants or visitors are not exposed to harmful substances.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Premises Liability Claim?

Potential damages may include:

Economic Damages

These can include:

• Medical Expenses: This encompasses all costs related to medical treatment, including hospital bills, rehabilitation, medication, and any future medical costs that are related to the injury.
• Lost Wages: If an injury stops you from working, you could be entitled to compensation for lost income during your recovery period. This also includes any potential loss of future earning capability if the injury results in long-term disability.
• Property Damage: If personal property is damaged during the incident, such as clothing, a smartphone, or other belongings, you may be able to recover the cost of repairs or replacement.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages can include:

• Pain and Suffering: This refers to the physical pain and emotional pain resulting from the injury. Calculating pain and suffering can be complex, as it often depends on the severity of the injury and its effect on your quality of life.
• Emotional Distress: Injuries can lead to significant emotional trauma, which includes anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Compensation may be available for these mental health struggles.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If an injury stops you from partaking in activities you once enjoyed, such as hobbies, sports, or spending time with family, you may be qualified to compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life.
• Loss of Consortium: If your injury impacts your relationship with your partner, they may be able to pursue damages for loss of companionship and support.