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Protecting Your Rights After an Injury in South Belt / Ellington
Property owners in the South Belt / Ellington area of Houston have a legal obligation to keep their premises safe for visitors, customers, and tenants. When they fail to address hazards or provide adequate security, innocent people can suffer life-altering injuries. If you have been hurt on someone else’s property, speaking with an experienced Houston Premises Liability Lawyer is the first step toward securing the compensation you need to recover.
At Nguyen Injury Law, we understand the physical and financial toll a sudden accident takes on a family. Whether you were injured at a local shopping center, an apartment complex, or a parking lot near Ellington Airport, we are here to provide the dedicated legal support you deserve.
Common Causes of Premises Liability Claims
Premises liability is a broad area of law that covers many different types of accidents. In South Belt / Ellington, we often see injuries resulting from:
- Slip and fall accidents on wet or oily floors
- Uneven pavement or cracked sidewalks
- Inadequate lighting in stairwells or parking garages
- Negligent security leading to assaults or robberies
- Malfunctioning elevators or escalators
- Falling objects in retail stores
- Unsecured swimming pools or construction sites
What to Do After an Injury on Someone Else’s Property
The actions you take immediately following an accident can significantly impact your ability to recover damages later. If you are injured, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries like concussions or internal damage may not be immediately apparent.
- Report the Incident: Notify the property owner, manager, or supervisor. Ensure an official incident report is filed and ask for a copy.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the hazard that caused your injury, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries.
- Identify Witnesses: Collect contact information from anyone who saw what happened.
- Avoid Detailed Statements: Do not admit fault or give recorded statements to insurance adjusters until you have consulted with a lawyer.
Understanding Fault and Liability in Texas
Proving liability in a premises case requires demonstrating that the property owner knew, or should have known, about a dangerous condition and failed to fix it or warn you about it. Texas law also considers your status on the property—whether you were an invitee (like a customer), a licensee (like a social guest), or a trespasser. Each category carries a different level of duty from the property owner. Our team investigates the specifics of your visit to build a strong case for negligence.
Damages You May Be Eligible to Recover
While every case is unique, victims of premises negligence may be entitled to recover compensation for various losses. These general categories include:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement or permanent disability
The Legal Process and Timeline
The process of a premises liability claim typically begins with a thorough investigation. We gather evidence, such as surveillance footage and maintenance records, to prove the owner’s negligence. From there, we enter negotiations with the insurance company. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident, so it is vital to act quickly to preserve your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible if I am injured at an apartment complex?
In many cases, the property management company or the owner of the complex can be held liable if the injury was caused by a failure to maintain common areas, such as broken stairs, poor lighting, or faulty gate locks.
What if I was partially at fault for my fall?
Texas follows a “proportionate responsibility” rule. As long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident, you can still recover damages, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
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.
Contact a South Belt / Ellington Premises Liability Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a property owner’s negligence, do not navigate the complex legal system alone. The team at Nguyen Injury Law is ready to fight for the justice you deserve. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explain your options.
Call us today at (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule your free case evaluation.