Denver Premises Liability Lawyers

Who Is Owed a Duty of Care?

As described above, licensees, invitees, and trespassers may be owed a duty of care while on other’s property. Below, we offer further details:

• Licensees: These are people who enter a property with the owner’s consent. An example of this could include guests invited into someone’s home. Licensees can seek damages if they are injured because of an unsafe condition on the property.
• Invitees: Those who enter a property for business purposes, such as customers at a store, are invitees. Property owners owe these people the highest duty of care and must make reasonable efforts to keep their premises safe for them.
• Trespassers: While trespassers do not have permission to be on someone’s property, they may be able to recover compensation for deliberate harm inflicted upon them by a property owner or another. 

Who Can Be Held Responsible in Premises Liability Cases? 

In Colorado, property owners or managers are the primary parties who can be held liable for injuries sustained on their premises. 

However, many other parties can be responsible, such as:

• Tenants
• Contractors
• Organizations running or planning events
• Vendors

Common Types of Premises Liability Cases

Premises liability cases can stem from various incidents, including the following and others:

Slip & Fall Accidents

These mishaps occur when a person slips, trips, or falls on another’s property (as the name suggests). Numerous hazards can cause a slip-and-fall accident, such as uneven or wet flooring, debris, and poor lighting.

Dog Bites

Colorado is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites, meaning the owner is responsible for damages regardless of whether they knew their dog had aggressive tendencies. It also means a dog does not have to have bitten someone previously for an owner to be held liable for a subsequent bite. 

Negligent Security

Property owners must provide adequate security measures to protect visitors from harm caused by third parties on their property, from guests to contractors or vendors. This may include having surveillance cameras, proper lighting, and security guards. 

Should You Accept an Insurance Settlement Offer? 

Many premises liability cases are resolved through insurance claims. In these situations, the insurer will likely try to settle for the lowest amount possible. While accepting a quick settlement offer may be tempting, you must consider whether it adequately covers your damages and losses. Generally, reviewing an offer with a trusted attorney is advisable. Doing so can help you feel confident the settlement meets your needs. If it does not, your attorney can take action and fight for fair compensation.