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Protecting Victims of Property Negligence in Southeast Houston
When you visit a business, a public space, or a private residence in the Golfcrest, Bellfort, or Reveille neighborhoods, you have a right to expect a reasonably safe environment. Unfortunately, property owners do not always maintain their premises, leading to preventable accidents and life-altering injuries. If you have been hurt due to a dangerous condition, consulting an experienced Houston Premises Liability Lawyer is the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.
Our legal team understands the specific challenges faced by residents in Southeast Houston. Whether your injury occurred at a local retail center, an apartment complex, or a grocery store, we are here to provide the local representation and legal guidance necessary to hold negligent parties accountable.
Common Causes of Premises Liability Injuries
Premises liability is a broad area of law that covers many different types of accidents. In the Golfcrest / Bellfort / Reveille area, we help clients who have suffered injuries due to various hazards, including:
- Slip and fall accidents caused by wet floors or spilled liquids.
- Trip and fall incidents resulting from uneven pavement or torn carpeting.
- Inadequate security leading to assaults or robberies in parking lots.
- Poor lighting in stairwells or walkways.
- Falling objects in warehouse-style retail stores.
- Dog bites or animal attacks on private or commercial property.
- Defective elevators or escalators.
Common Injuries Sustained
These accidents often result in more than just minor bruises. We represent individuals dealing with serious conditions such as bone fractures, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord damage, and severe lacerations that require long-term medical care.
Steps to Take After an Injury on Someone Else’s Property
The actions you take immediately following an accident can significantly impact your ability to recover damages. If you are injured, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Documentation of your injuries is also vital for your case.
- Report the Incident: Notify the property owner, manager, or supervisor. Ensure they create a written incident report and request a copy.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the hazard that caused your injury (e.g., the spill, the broken step, or the lack of signage).
- Gather Witness Information: Collect names and phone numbers of anyone who saw what happened.
- Avoid Giving Statements: Do not sign anything or give recorded statements to insurance adjusters before speaking with a lawyer.
How Liability is Determined in Texas
In Texas, property owners owe different levels of care depending on why you were on the property. Most claimants fall into the category of “invitees” (customers or guests) to whom owners owe a high duty of care. To win a premises liability case, we generally must prove that:
- A dangerous condition existed on the property.
- The owner knew or should have known about the condition.
- The owner failed to fix the problem or warn you about it.
- The condition directly caused your injury.
Damages You May Recover
While every case is unique, victims of property negligence may be eligible to recover compensation for various losses. These generally include:
- Current and future medical expenses related to the injury.
- Lost wages if you are unable to work during recovery.
- Loss of earning capacity if the injury results in a long-term disability.
- Pain and suffering and emotional distress.
- Property damage (such as a broken phone or watch).
The Legal Process and Timeline
The timeline for a premises liability claim varies based on the complexity of the case and the severity of the injuries. The process typically begins with a thorough investigation and the gathering of evidence, such as surveillance footage and maintenance logs. We then enter a period of negotiation with the insurance company. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to move the case into litigation to fight for your rights in court. Throughout the process, our goal is to handle the legal burdens so you can focus on your physical recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a premises liability lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only receive a fee if we successfully recover compensation for you.
What if I was partially at fault for my fall?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident, though your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How long do I have to file a claim in Houston?
Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. However, it is best to act quickly to ensure evidence is preserved.
Contact a Golfcrest / Bellfort / Reveille Premises Liability Lawyer Today
Do not navigate the complexities of an insurance claim alone. If you have been injured in the Golfcrest, Bellfort, or Reveille area, our team is ready to help you understand your options and pursue the justice you deserve. We offer a free consultation to discuss the details of your case.
Contact us today to get started. Call (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule your free case evaluation.