Now that the weather is cooperating, more and more Somerville residents are staying out past dark. When out walking around the streets and parking lots, it is important to be careful of hidden hazards. But when a property owner is negligent in their lighting or other parking lot maintenance, they can be liable for the often serious injuries that result.
There are many different ways a person can get unexpectedly injured while outside. One way is because the lighting is inadequate in a parking lot. Because of inadequate lighting, a person can trip over curbs, fall on steps, or trip because of an uneven surface or hole in the pavement. If a property owner knows that the lighting is inadequate they could be liable if they do not remedy the situation. The same is true if the property owner knows that there is a hazard on their sidewalk that is exclusively used for customers to enter their building and they don’t fix the hazard.
When someone gets an injury because of a property that is not maintained properly it can cause serious injuries. These injuries are unexpected and they can be prevented when a property owner does proper maintenance. If a person is unexpectedly injured in a slip and fall accident they may want to speak with a legal professional who is skilled in personal injury. An attorney can investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident and help determine what caused it. They can hold the property owner responsible if they are found to be negligent. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, future medical expenses, pain and suffering and other damages.
An unexpected injury can happen at any time. When a premise is not lit properly, hazards can be missed by those visiting the area. A person who is injured on private property may have legal rights and an attorney can offer advice and get them the help they deserve.
Source: injury.findlaw.com, “Conditions leading to outdoor slip and fall accidents“, accessed on April 29, 2017