When you enter upon the premises of another person or business, you expect that environment to be safe.  That is not always the case - you might encounter an unshoveled sidewalk, a rabid dog, or a dangerous structural condition that does not meet safety codes.  At times, these dangers arise due to acts of nature and cannot be prevented.  There are occasions, however, where a dangerous condition arises due to the carelessness of the property owner.  This could be a business that leaves an oil slick on a floor over which patrons are known to traverse, or a dog owner who does not secure a dangerous dog.  Property owners, including businesses, have a legal duty to provide an environment that is safe for those who might visit or frequent the premises.

These types of dangers can lead to injury, and to upheaval in your life.  In the short term, you might be unable to work, and thus unable to provide for your family.  You may incur bills for your medical treatment, and not know where to turn for payment.  You could have injuries that prevent you from performing activities you love, or keep you from performing even basic activities you take for granted, like holding your children or grandchildren, or cleaning your home.

When your life has been turned upside-down, you are in a vulnerable condition.  You normally have never been in a similar situation, while you will likely be dealing with an insurance adjustor on the other side who deals with similar situations every day.  It is not a level playing field.  Not only is the adjustor an experienced negotiator, but your case likely involves legal issues that can dictate whether or not you are entitled to recover at all.  For example, the adjustor may assert the “Assumption of the Risk” doctrine, or could assert that you were comparatively negligent.

In premises liability situations, you need an experienced and skilled premises liability attorney.  The insurance adjustor working for the property owner is not on your side.  He or she is not interested in treating you fairly, but rather in saving the insurance company as much money as possible.  There is a claims process that must be followed in most cases, and you can’t count on the adjustor to do it for you.