When someone sustains an injury on another person’s property, life can quickly become overwhelming. Medical bills start arriving, time away from work leads to lost income, and the property owner’s insurance company may contact you.
Speaking with a Stockton premises liability lawyer can help you understand your legal options and the steps you may take to protect yourself. A personal injury attorney at Law Office of Brian H. Turner can review the facts of your case, explain important deadlines, and communicate with insurance representatives so you can focus on recovering. Our lawyers work to provide personalized attention, clear communication, and a strategy that is built around your specific needs.
Premises liability cases involve situations where a property owner, tenant, or manager fails to take reasonable steps to keep their property safe. California Civil Code § 1714(a) establishes a general duty to act with ordinary care toward others. To seek compensation, an injured person usually needs to prove that the defendant owed a duty of care, that the defendant breached that duty, and that the breach caused the individual’s injuries and losses.
The state applies the rule of pure comparative negligence, which means that compensation may be less if the injured person was partly at fault. Injured parties must file a claim within two years under the California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. However, if the claim involves a public entity, the Government Claims Act generally requires that the injured party file a written claim within six months.
Our lawyers are experienced in Stockton premises liability claims and can identify the responsible parties, meet the relevant deadlines, and preserve evidence before it disappears.
Detailed and reliable evidence is key to building a strong case. To accurately document hazards, contact witnesses, and secure maintenance or inspection records, prompt action is essential. In some cases, expert witnesses can provide insight into building codes, lighting conditions, flooring surfaces, or stair safety. An attorney can request the preservation of evidence and arrange for an inspection before any changes to the property occur.
Evidence that may help strengthen a case includes:
Weather conditions, such as seasonal rain resulting in slippery entrances, or construction zones in busy areas, can play a role in how hazards occur and who bears responsibility. Our property injury lawyers in Stockton can check whether building codes, safety standards, or landlord–tenant regulations support a claim.
Compensation in a premises liability case may cover both physical and emotional losses. This includes:
Punitive damages are less common and require proof of serious misconduct.
The value of a claim depends on factors such as the extent of the injury, the strength of the evidence, the availability of insurance coverage, and how well-documented the damages are. The state does not impose a general cap on damages in these cases, except in specific circumstances, such as medical malpractice. A Stockton attorney with experience in property liability cases can explain how these rules may apply to the injured party’s particular situation.
You do not need to navigate this process on your own. A Stockton premises liability lawyer can meet you at your home, review what happened, explain your options, and help you take steps to protect your rights while you focus on healing.
To learn more, contact Law Office of Brian H. Turner. A short consultation can help you understand deadlines, what evidence to save, and possible paths toward compensation. Ensuring that you are informed today can help you move forward with confidence.