Who is Responsible for Indoor Dangerous Property Conditions?

In New Jersey or elsewhere, when visiting commercial or private properties — such as retailers or even other’s homes, — no one expects to get hurt. However, numerous injuries occur each and every year due to indoor dangerous property conditions. Slip-and-fall incidents are likey to blame for a majority of these accidents.

Slip-and-fall accidents can occur in a number of ways. Recently cleaned, waxed or polished floors are often the culprits in such incidents. While it is reasonable to expect property owners to take care of their floors, it is also reasonable to expect notice of a potential slip hazard after such maintenance has been completed.

Slipping and tripping hazards can also be present if floors are uneven, stairs are worn or covered in debris, escalators and elevators experience mechanical issues, carpets are torn or rugs are in bad shape. Again, known issues should be taken care of as soon as possible. If repairs can not be quickly addressed, signage warning of the problem should be placed until the issue can be fixed properly.

Keeping property conditions safe is an owner’s legal responsibility. If he or she fails to repair any known issues or supply sufficient warning, he or she may be held accountable for any injuries suffered by guests. Individuals in New Jersey who have suffered injuries due to dangerous property conditions may have legal recourse. Personal injury, premises liability and any other appropriate claims may be filed in civil court. If the property owner is found to have been negligent in his or her responsibility to keep safe property conditions, financial compensation may be awarded.

Source: FindLaw, “Indoor Slip and Fall Accident Conditions“, Accessed on June 18, 2016