What to Do If You’re Injured at a Friend’s House
Millions of people get hurt at home each year in the U.S. But accidents are especially tricky when you’re injured at a friend’s house. Understanding your rights and the steps to take can help you recover compensation without unnecessarily straining relationships.
Understanding Premises Liability
Property owners must keep their homes reasonably safe for visitors. This responsibility, called “premises liability,” holds homeowners accountable for injuries on their property. According to the Rhode Island Supreme Court:
“[A] landowner has a duty to exercise reasonable care for the safety of persons reasonably expected to be on the premises… provided the landowner knows of, or by the exercise of reasonable care would have discovered, the dangerous condition.”
Common examples include slipping on icy sidewalks, falling on broken stairs, dog bites, inadequate lighting, construction defects, or even a backyard pool accident.
When to Take Legal Action
It can feel awkward to take action if you are injured at a friend’s house, but it’s important to remember that their homeowner’s insurance is meant to cover these incidents. You can seek reimbursement for medical bills, lost wages, or other damages without causing direct financial harm to your friend.
How to Proceed
Seek medical treatment immediately.
Consult a personal injury attorney to assess your case.
The attorney can deal with insurance companies, calculate your damages, and ensure your claim is filed within the statute of limitations.
If you’ve been injured at a friend’s house, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Inman & Tourgee online or call(401) 823-9200 to discuss your legal options today.
