PREMISES LIABILITY ATTORNEYS IN MAUI, HAWAII

Every property owner has a legal duty to maintain a safe environment for those who enter their premises. However, accidents can happen anywhere, from commercial establishments to quiet residential neighborhoods. When injuries occur on someone else's property, premises liability law helps determine who is responsible for compensating the injured party.  

At Ranken & Shnider, Attorneys at Law, we are a dedicated team based in the beautiful locale of Maui, Hawaii, and help individuals understand their rights after an injury on someone else’s property. We’re here to outline property owner responsibilities, discuss common types of cases, and explain how we can assist those affected. If you need support, reach out to us today.  

Understanding Premises Liability

Premises liability refers to the concept that property owners are legally obligated to ensure their property is safe for visitors. If someone is injured on another's property due to unsafe conditions that arose from the owner's negligence, that owner may be held responsible.  

Key points about premises liability include: 

• Property owner responsibilities: Owners must keep their property reasonably safe and warn visitors of any known dangers. 

• Establishing liability: To hold a property owner liable, it must be proven they were aware of the dangerous condition (or should have been aware) and failed to rectify it or provide adequate warning, leading directly to the injury. 

• Visitor classification: The level of care owed by the property owner can vary based on whether the injured person was an invitee (someone invited onto the property for business/commercial reasons), licensee (a social guest), or in some cases, a trespasser. 

Understanding these elements is crucial for anyone seeking to pursue a premises liability case. A property owner's duties extend to various scenarios, including maintaining safe walkways, ensuring the structural integrity of buildings, and keeping the premises secure from any foreseeable harm. 

Common Types of Premises Liability Cases

Premises liability cases can arise from various situations. Some of the most common include: 

• Slip and fall accidents: These occur when a person slips, trips, or falls due to a dangerous condition on the property, such as wet floors or uneven surfaces. 

• Swimming pool accidents: These can involve injuries or drownings in unsecured or poorly maintained pools. 

• Dog bites: Property owners can be held liable for bites or injuries caused by their pets on their property. 

• Inadequate security: If a lack of security leads to assault or theft, the property owner might be held responsible.  

• Burn Injuries: These can include chemical burns, electrical accidents, and more.

No matter what kind of personal injury you've been victim to, our team will investigate the incident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies. Our goal is for you to receive the compensation you deserve. 

How a Premises Liability Attorney Can Help

When you or someone close to you has suffered an injury on another's property in Maui, securing compensation for those injuries can be crucial. At Ranken & Shnider, Attorneys at Law, we offer legal support that begins with an evaluation of your case.  

Our process involves a deep investigation into the specifics of your incident to establish the viability of your claim. Our team excels in conducting negotiations with insurance companies, aiming for a settlement that reflects the fair value of your injuries. When necessary, we are ready to represent you in court to ensure your rights are defended and justice is served. 

FAQs

Q: What should I do if I'm injured on someone else's property? 

A: Seek medical attention immediately, document the scene and your injuries, report the accident to the property owner, and contact a premises liability attorney. 

Q: How long do I have to file a premises liability claim in Hawaii? 

A: Hawaii law requires premises liability claims to be filed within two years of the injury date. However, it's important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to make sure your rights are protected. 

Q: Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault for my injury? 

A: Yes, under Hawaii's comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages even if you were partly responsible. However, your compensation amount may be reduced by your percentage of fault. 

Q: What types of compensation can I receive in a premises liability case? 

A: You may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more, depending on the specifics of your case.