Ohio premises liability law often imposes a duty on property owners to keep their premises reasonably safe. However, the law is very complicated, and the duty depends on the circumstances, such as why you were on the property. To receive compensation, you should consult an experienced personal injury lawyer at Groth & Associates to learn whether you have a solid case.
Ohio Premises Liability Law
Whether you can sue will depend in large part on why you were on the property. This is called your status, and it determines the duty of care owed to you. For example, you might be one of the following:
- Invitee. You were invited onto the property for the owner’s benefit. A customer in a store is an obvious example.
- Licensee. You were allowed onto the property for your own benefit. For example, a political campaign volunteer invited in to discuss a candidate is a licensee.
- Trespasser. A trespasser has no right to enter or stay on your property.
Generally, Ohio requires that property owners exercise ordinary care to protect invitees. But owners owe much less care to licensees and trespassers unless they are children drawn by an artificial attractive nuisance.
For a free legal consultation, call (419) 930-3030
Documenting the Hazard
A key part in every case is proving that you slipped on a hazard or defect. Without this evidence, the property owner could claim you just tripped over your own feet—and they aren’t responsible for that.
Most people slip because of:
- Snow
- Ice
- Worn carpets
- Loose tiles or boards
- Waxed or mopped floors
- Spilled liquids
- Condensation
- Trash or debris
You can use a cell phone to take a picture of the hazard or ask someone else to. This evidence is very helpful.
You should also speak to witnesses. They can testify as to how long the hazard existed and provide other needed information.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me (419) 930-3030
Meet with an Attorney
An experienced personal injury lawyer can analyze the facts and law. For example, if you slipped on spilled liquids in a grocery store aisle, key questions arise:
- How long was the liquid on the floor?
- Did the store staff know about the spill or create it themselves?
- Did store staff regularly inspect the aisles?
These questions matter for determining whether you have a solid case. If staff never checked aisles or delayed cleaning up a spill they knew about, then you have a strong case to hold them accountable. By contrast, if the spill just happened seconds before you slipped, then the store might not be liable.
Your attorney can begin compiling evidence and, if you have a solid case, submit a demand for compensation. You should request money to cover your pain, suffering, medical bills, property damage, and lost income.
Contact Groth & Associates As Soon as Possible
Typically, Ohio gives slip-and-fall victims only two years to file a lawsuit after the accident. This time can pass very quickly. If you wait too long, you can definitely lose the ability to sue. Please call or send a message to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team.
Call or text (419) 930-3030 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form