Have you ever heard of a case of someone suing because they got hurt after slipping in a spilled soda? This is an example of premises liability, which is the legal term for when someone is injured due to hazardous or dangerous conditions on someone else’s property. While the majority of premises liability cases involve falls, there are some stranger examples out there. According to a premises liability lawyer from our friends at David & Philpot, P.L., here are some of the most unusual premises liability cases that can be represented in court.
Rattlesnake Attack
If you are attacked by a snake, that can actually count as a case. For example, you head over to someone’s house. That person has had repeated issues with rattlesnakes biting people that visit. Then, during your time at that person’s house, you too are bit by a snake. This can fall under premises liability because you were injured due to someone else’s negligence!
Bit by a Rat in a Restaurant
In this scenario, the diner would be able to bring a lawsuit against the restaurant for failing to take proper precautions against an infestation of rats. This can include proof of negligence by the restaurant owner or manager in not taking the necessary steps to control or eliminate the rat population. If it can be proven that the restaurant failed to take the proper measures and that this negligence resulted in the diner being bitten by a rat, then the diner may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. This could include medical bills and costs associated with lost wages due to the injury.
Electrocution after Touching a Metal Handrail in an Elevator
This type of case involves the owners or operators of an elevator having a duty to maintain safe conditions for those using it. This includes ensuring that all metal parts such as handrails are properly insulated from electricity so that no one gets shocked. In the case of an elevator with a metal handrail, if it is not properly insulated, any contact with it could potentially result in an electric shock and even death. The responsibility to ensure that this safety measure is taken falls on the owners or operators of the elevator and they can be held liable if it is proven that they failed to take adequate steps to ensure the safety of their patrons.
Slip on a Banana Peel at a Store
No, this is not a scene from a cartoon. Slipping on a banana peel at a store is actually a real life example of premises liability that can result in serious injury and even death. If a store fails to clean up hazardous items such as banana peels or other food, then they may be held responsible for any resulting injuries. In fact, the store can even be held liable if they know or should have known that there was a banana peel or other dangerous item on their floor.
Attacked by a Dog while Walking
When someone is attacked by a dog on another person’s property, the owner of the property can be held liable for the attack. Depending on the state and local laws, the victim may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To prove a premises liability claim related to an animal attack, the victim must show that the property owner was aware of the animal’s dangerous propensities and failed to take reasonable steps to protect people from potential harm.
If you have experienced an injury due to someone else’s negligence, contact a premises liability lawyer near you.