Bellevue Premises Liability Lawyer

When you visit a store, restaurant, or even a neighbor’s home, you have every right to expect that the property is safe. Unfortunately, accidents happen when property owners neglect their duty to maintain a hazard-free environment.

At Bernard Law Group, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these incidents can take on your life. If you or a loved one has been injured on someone else’s property, our experienced Bellevue injury lawyers are here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility property owners have to ensure their premises are safe for visitors. This duty extends to a wide range of property types, including commercial establishments, residential homes, government properties, and public spaces.

If an individual is injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, they may be entitled to seek compensation for their injuries.

In Washington State, premises liability cases are governed by common law principles and specific legal statutes. Under Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 4.22.070, property owners may be held liable for injuries caused by negligence, provided the injured party can demonstrate the property owner’s failure to maintain a safe environment.

Common Causes of Premises Liability Injuries

Premises liability claims encompass a variety of scenarios, many of which stem from preventable hazards. Some of the most common causes of injuries include:

• Slip and fall accidents: Slip, trip, and fall incidents can occur due to wet floors, icy sidewalks, uneven surfaces, or debris left in walkways.
• Inadequate maintenance: Broken stairs, malfunctioning elevators, or defective handrails can create dangerous conditions.
• Negligent security: Insufficient lighting, broken locks, or lack of surveillance can lead to criminal activity and injuries.
• Dog bites: Owners are responsible for controlling their pets and preventing attacks.
• Swimming pool accidents: Poor supervision, lack of safety measures, or defective pool equipment can result in serious injuries or drownings.

Each scenario requires a thorough investigation to determine liability and establish negligence.

Proving Negligence in Premises Liability Cases

As Bellevue’s leading premises liability attorney, we understand the importance of building a strong case. To prove negligence in a premises liability claim, the injured party must demonstrate the following:

1. Duty of care: The property owner owed a legal duty to provide a safe environment for visitors.
2. Breach of duty: The property owner failed to fulfill their duty by not addressing or warning of hazardous conditions.
3. Causation: The unsafe condition directly caused the injury.
4. Damages: The injury resulted in measurable losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

For instance, if you slipped on a wet floor in a grocery store, we would work to show that the store manager failed to address the hazard or provide adequate warning signs.

Understanding Washington’s Premises Liability Laws

In Washington State, premises liability laws recognize three types of visitors: invitees, licensees, and trespassers. Each category determines the level of care owed by the property owner.

• Invitees: These are individuals invited onto the property for business purposes, such as customers in a store. Property owners owe invitees the highest duty of care, including regular inspections and prompt hazard resolution.
• Licensees: These are social guests or individuals present for non-commercial purposes. Property owners must warn licensees of known dangers.
• Trespassers: Property owners generally owe no duty to trespassers except in cases involving children or willful harm.

Our Bellevue injury attorneys understand these legal distinctions and how they apply to your case.

Why Choose Bernard Law Group?

With decades of experience and a proven track record of success, Bernard Law Group is recognized as a top-rated personal injury law firm in Bellevue. We are committed to personalized representation and ensuring each client receives the attention and resources needed.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Experience: Our team has successfully handled numerous premises liability cases, recovering substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients.
• Thorough investigations: We collaborate with industry experts, such as engineers and safety consultants, to gather compelling evidence.
• Compassionate advocacy: We understand the challenges you face after an injury and provide support throughout the process.

Washington State Premises Liability Statistics

Premises liability injuries are more common than many realize. According to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), slips and falls account for over one million hospital emergency room visits annually. In Washington State alone, the Department of Health reports that falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries for individuals over the age of 65.

These statistics highlight the importance of holding negligent property owners accountable to prevent future harm.

Compensation for Premises Liability Injuries

If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, rehabilitation, medication, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work and diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to deter similar behavior.

As your injury lawyer in Bellevue, WA, we will meticulously calculate your damages to ensure you receive the full amount you deserve.

Steps to Take After a Premises Liability Injury

Taking the right steps after an injury can significantly impact the outcome of your case. We recommend the following:

1. Seek medical attention: Your health is the top priority. Obtain a professional evaluation and document your injuries.
2. Report the incident: Immediately notify the property owner or manager and request a written report.
3. Gather evidence: Take photos of the hazard, your injuries, and the surrounding area. If possible, collect witness contact information.
4. Consult an attorney: Contact our experienced Bellevue premises liability lawyers to discuss your legal options.

How We Can Help

Bernard Law Group is dedicated to protecting your rights and securing justice. When you work with us, you can expect:

• Free consultation: We offer a no-obligation case evaluation to assess the strength of your claim.
• No upfront costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win.
• Aggressive representation: Our team will negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, take your case to trial.

Contact a Bellevue Premises Liability Lawyer Today

Don’t let a property owner’s negligence derail your life. At Bernard Law Group, we are here to help you hold negligent parties accountable and recover the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with a trusted premises liability attorney in Bellevue. Let us put our expertise to work for you and help you on the path to recovery.