Mississippi Premises Liability Attorneys

Property owners and managers have a responsibility to maintain their property in a safe condition. Depending on the status of the property, visible problems should be fixed, and hazards clearly explained before anyone steps foot on the premises. If you have been injured due to a slip and fall or some other property-related accident, you may have the right to pursue compensation.

The premises liability attorneys at Smith Murphy Law have helped clients injured in slip and fall accidents collect just compensation for damages. If you or a loved one have been injured, contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.

What is a Premises Liability Claim in Mississippi?

Property owners have a duty to ensure their premises are free from hazards, such as spills, debris, and ice. When a business owner or homeowner fails to safely maintain their property, someone could be injured in a slip and fall or other accident. The injured party has the right to file a premises liability claim.

Over the past several years, premises liability cases in Mississippi have become more complex. The state passed a new law in 2019 making changes to a property owner’s liability. Specifically, property owners have more protections than in the past if someone is hurt on their premises.

If an injured party was in any way responsible for their accident, such as being distracted while walking, the property owner can shift some of the blame during a case. This is why it’s vital that you work with a seasoned premises liability attorney who understands these issues and will fight for your legal rights.

Common Types of Premises Liability Claims

Various accidents and incidents can lead to a premises liability claim. However, there are some events that are more common. Our law firm sees cases most commonly involving the following:

• Slip and Fall Accidents — Wet floors, icy walkways, or materials stacked in an aisle can lead to slip and fall accidents.
• Dog Bites — Dog owners have a responsibility to ensure their animals don’t harm others.
• Fires — Improper wiring and a lack of fire extinguishers or emergency exits can be a deadly combination.
• Escalator and Elevator Accidents — When not properly maintained, escalators and elevators can be serious safety hazards.
• Security Issues — A property owner has a duty to provide proper lighting and security to prevent serious events like assault.
• Toxic Exposure — Exposure to asbestos or lead paint can lead to a claim if illness results.

This is not an exhaustive list. If you’ve been injured on another party’s property, contact our office to discuss how you might be eligible for compensation.

Slip & Falls Are Common Accident Claims

Slip and falls and trip and falls are the most common types of accidents in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that one in every five falls results in a serious injury, like a broken bone. These types of accidents are common causes of workplace injuries and traumatic brain injuries.

Where Do Slip and Fall Accidents Take Place?

Slip and fall accidents can happen at any time and any place. Common areas where these types of incidents occur include:

• Grocery stores
• Retail stores
• Restaurants
• Hotels
• Shopping malls
• Amusement parks
• Apartments and rental homes
• Public sidewalks
• Private property
• Workplaces

Who is Responsible When a Slip and Fall Happens?

In Mississippi, a property owner, manager, or person occupying a property owes a duty to people who enter the premises. Mississippi law distinguishes between an invitee, licensee, and trespasser. The highest duty of care is owed to an invitee and the lowest to a trespasser.

Properties must be safe and present no obvious hazards that could cause injury. If there are any hazards, they must either be corrected or pointed out to keep visitors safe. If you’ve been injured on another party’s property in a slip and fall accident, you may have a case if you were lawfully on the property and some type of hazard or negligence existed.

Getting Compensation for Your Damages After a Slip and Fall Accident

According to the CDC, roughly 800,000 Americans are hospitalized for fall-related injuries. And about 20 percent of falls cause serious injury to the body. Common injuries from falls include broken and fractured bones, head injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and knee injuries.

The damages from one of these claims can add up quickly. But you are entitled to full and fair compensation from the responsible party. Some of the damages you may be able to collect include:

• Medical expenses, such as ambulance, hospital, physician, prescription, and rehabilitation charges
• The cost of future medical care
• Lost wages for time away from work
• Diminished earning capacity
• Emotional distress
• Loss of consortium
• Pain and suffering

Because of the new law in place meant to protect property owners, Mississippi slip and fall cases can be particularly complex. The elements of ownership, possession, and control must all be considered as well as the particular duty of care of the parties in control of the property.

And it’s important to understand that insurance companies are not on your side in these cases. They will attempt to use the state comparative fault rules to shift the blame in your direction or deny liability completely. Your best course of action is to work with a skilled personal injury lawyer who can protect your rights and fight for maximum compensation.

Speak With a Qualified Mississippi Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer

Whether you or someone you love has been hurt on public or private property, the party responsible for your damages should be held accountable. If you believe that a negligent or irresponsible property owner is to blame for your slip and fall or another premises-related injury, Smith Murphy Law can help.

Our Mississippi slip and fall attorneys have been successful in recovering full and fair damages for our clients. We also handle personal injury cases on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case.

Call us today at (662) 832-7879 or reach out to us online to schedule a free consultation in our Oxford office.