Property owners have a legal responsibility to keep their premises safe. Unfortunately, not everyone takes that responsibility seriously. Whether you slipped on a wet floor at a grocery store, tripped over uneven pavement, or were hurt due to inadequate security, injuries on someone else’s property can be painful, costly, and disruptive to your life.
If you’ve been injured on another person’s property in Utah, you may have a premises liability claim. Understanding your rights and knowing when to speak with an attorney can make all the difference in securing the compensation you need to recover.
What Is Premises Liability?
Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners accountable for accidents and injuries that occur due to unsafe or poorly maintained conditions on their property. These cases can happen on both private and public properties, including homes, businesses, rental properties, and public spaces.
To bring a successful claim, you must typically show that:
- The property owner or manager owed you a duty of care
- They failed to maintain reasonably safe conditions
- Their negligence directly caused your injury
Premises liability cases can vary widely in complexity, and liability is not always immediately clear. That’s why working with a knowledgeable attorney can help you understand the strength of your case and what to do next.
Common Types of Premises Liability Accidents in Utah
Accidents can happen anywhere, but when they’re caused by a property owner’s failure to act responsibly, they may be grounds for legal action. Some of the most common premises liability cases we see in Utah include:
- Slip and fall accidents caused by wet floors, icy sidewalks, or cluttered walkways
- Trip and fall incidents due to uneven flooring or poor lighting
- Injuries from falling objects, such as merchandise or construction materials
- Dog bites or animal attacks on private property
- Elevator and escalator malfunctions
- Swimming pool accidents due to a lack of barriers or supervision
- Assaults due to negligent security, especially in apartment complexes, hotels, or parking lots
Each of these situations can result in serious injuries like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or deep lacerations. These injuries often lead to expensive medical care, missed work, and lasting pain.
Utah Premises Liability Laws and Your Rights
In Utah, the legal responsibility of the property owner depends on your visitor status:
- Invitees (such as shoppers or tenants) are owed the highest duty of care
- Licensees (social guests, for example) are still protected, but to a lesser degree
- Trespassers are generally not owed a duty of care, though there are exceptions, especially if the trespasser is a child
The law also requires property owners to inspect their property regularly and fix known hazards within a reasonable time frame. If they fail to do so (and someone gets hurt as a result), they may be held liable.
These laws can be nuanced. A premises liability attorney can review the facts of your case and explain whether the property owner breached their duty and whether compensation may be available.
Premises Liability Statistics in the United States
Accidents due to unsafe property conditions are more common than most people realize. According to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), slip and falls account for over 1 million emergency room visits each year in the U.S.
Falls are also the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations in adults over 65, according to the CDC. Proper maintenance and safety measures could have prevented many of these incidents.
In Utah, icy winters and rapid construction growth create additional hazards, especially in urban areas like Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden.
Why You Shouldn’t Handle a Premises Liability Claim Alone
Premises liability cases often involve complicated legal and factual issues. Property owners and their insurance companies will likely try to argue that your injury was your fault, or that the hazard wasn’t obvious or preventable. They may also try to minimize the seriousness of your injuries.
When you work with a personal injury attorney, you gain someone who will:
- Investigate the incident and gather critical evidence
- Interview witnesses and consult with safety or medical experts
- Review security footage (if available)
- Build a strong claim supported by facts
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Take your case to court if a fair settlement isn’t offered
We know how overwhelming this process can feel, especially when you’re focused on healing. Our goal is to remove the legal burden from your shoulders so you can focus on your recovery.
How Comparative Fault Affects Your Utah Premises Liability Claim
Utah uses a modified comparative fault system, which can affect your case significantly. If you are found partially responsible for the accident (say, you weren’t watching where you were walking or ignored a warning sign), your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
If you’re found more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages.
This is another reason to have legal representation. A skilled attorney can push back against exaggerated claims of fault and protect your right to full compensation.
Damages You May Be Entitled To
If you were injured due to unsafe conditions on someone’s property, you may be eligible for compensation, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Costs related to long-term disability or rehabilitation
Every case is different, and the value of your claim will depend on factors like the severity of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, and how the accident has impacted your daily life.
Talk to a Utah Premises Liability Attorney Today
At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we’ve represented countless clients who were injured due to unsafe property conditions. We understand how life-changing these accidents can be, and we’re here to help you take the next step.
Our legal team combines deep experience with genuine compassion for the people we serve. We know how to build strong premises liability cases, negotiate effectively with insurers, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you or someone you love has been injured on someone else’s property in Utah as a result of negligence, you don’t have to go through this alone. Call 801-500-4000 to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and start your path toward recovery.