Premises Liability Attorneys in Houston, Texas

When you visit someone else's property, whether a store, a friend's house, or a public park, you expect to be safe. Unfortunately, not all property owners keep their premises safe—so whether or not you or your loved one will get hurt may feel like a lottery.  

And there you are. You’ve been injured on someone else’s property. The incident has disrupted your plans for the foreseeable future and left you with mounting medical bills and lost wages. Sounds terrible, right? At Ellis & Thomas, PLLC, we know exactly how you feel. For years, our premises liability attorneys in Houston, Texas, have been dedicated to helping people like you hold property owners accountable and get our clients the compensation they deserve.  

What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability refers to a property owner's responsibility to ensure their premises are reasonably safe for visitors. If an injury occurs due to unsafe conditions, the property owner may be held liable for negligence. 

Whether it's a slip and fall at a commercial establishment or an injury from a poorly maintained property feature, premises liability cases evaluate whether the owner took reasonable steps to prevent harm. These cases are not just limited to commercial properties; they can also involve residential settings. 

Premises Liability Cases We Handle

Premises liability incidents encompass a wide range of scenarios where individuals sustain injuries on another person's property. Here are some of the cases that our Houston premises liability attorneys at Ellis & Thomas, PLLC, handle:  

• Slip and fall accidents: Wet floors or uneven surfaces can lead to serious injuries. 

• Inadequate maintenance: Poor upkeep of property, such as broken stairs or faulty wiring. 

• Dog bites: Owners may be liable if their dog attacks a visitor. 

• Swimming pool accidents: Lack of safety measures can result in drowning or other injuries. 

• Insufficient security: Inadequate security measures can lead to assaults or theft. 

• Retail store accidents: Items falling from shelves or broken merchandise causing harm. 

• Exposure to toxic substances: Improper handling of hazardous materials. 

• Construction site injuries: Unmarked hazards posing risks to visitors. 

Each of these incidents highlights a potential lapse in the property owner's duty to maintain a safe environment. Whether or not victims of such incidents are entitled to compensation depends on their status (more about that in the section below) and their ability to prove the owner’s negligence.

Licensee vs. Invitee vs. Trespasser and the Property Owner’s Duty of Care

You need to determine your status before pursuing a premises liability case: 

1. Invitee: An invitee is someone invited for business purposes (e.g., customers). Property owners owe the highest duty of care to keep the environment safe. 

2. Licensee: Licensees are essentially social guests. Property owners must warn of any known dangers. 

3. Trespasser: Someone without permission to be on the property is legally known as a trespasser. Owners owe a minimal duty, typically to avoid willful harm. 

If you have a hard time determining your status, you might want to schedule a free consultation with our Texas premises liability attorney at Ellis & Thomas, PLLC, and discuss the specifics of your case.  

How Is Fault Determined in Premises Liability Cases?

In Texas, premises liability cases often hinge on the property's condition and the owner's knowledge of potential hazards. Texas also follows a modified comparative negligence doctrine—also known as “proportionate responsibility” under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 33.001—meaning if you're found partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced. If you are more than 50% responsible, you may not recover damages. 

Possibly Liable Parties in Premises Liability Incidents

When suing for an injury on someone else’s property, the list of potentially liable parties includes:  

• Property owners bear primary responsibility for maintaining safety. 

• Tenants or businesses may share liability if they lease the property. 

• Maintenance companies can be liable if negligent repairs or upkeep led to the accident. 

• Security firms may bear responsibility if inadequate security measures contribute to harm. 

Everyone’s situation is unique, which is why you might need to have your case reviewed by a Houston premises liability lawyer to know whom you can sue.  

How to Know if You Have a Valid Premises Liability Case?

To determine the validity of your case, ask yourself these questions: 

• Was there a hazardous condition on the property? 

• Did the property owner know or should have known about the hazard?  

• Did you sustain an injury due to the hazard?  

• Did you suffer damages such as medical bills or lost wages?  

Usually, proving the property owner’s liability requires a thorough investigation. But how do you investigate everything yourself when you’re trying to focus on your recovery? That’s where an attorney can help.  

How a Premises Liability Attorney Can Help

Not sure if hiring an attorney for your premises liability case is a worthy investment? Consider the ways an attorney could help:  

• Evaluate your case: Determine the strength of your claim. 

• Conduct an investigation to gather evidence: Collect crucial information like surveillance footage, witness statements, and maintenance records. 

• Negotiate with insurers: Aim to secure a fair settlement. 

• Advise on a legal strategy: Guide you through legal proceedings. 

• Prove liability: Establish the property owner's negligence. 

• Assess damages: Calculate the full extent of your losses. 

• Represent you in court: Advocate for your rights if the case goes to trial. 

It’s just a non-exclusive list of things a premises liability attorney will do when you hire them.  

Why Choose Ellis & Thomas, PLLC?

Choosing Ellis & Thomas, PLLC, means partnering with attorneys who are well-versed in Texas premises liability law and committed to your recovery. Our dedication to understanding every nuance of your case ensures that we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice. Our unwavering commitment to securing maximum compensation for our clients is matched only by our compassionate approach, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. Our testimonials speak volumes about our tireless advocacy and the positive outcomes we've achieved for countless clients. At Ellis & Thomas, PLLC, we blend compassion with skill, providing a legal service that prioritizes your needs and fights relentlessly for your right to recovery.