Helping Victims of Slip and Falls and Unsafe Conditions in Lebanon
If you or a loved one has been injured on someone else’s property in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Premises liability law holds property owners accountable for maintaining safe environments for visitors. At Munley Law, a Lebanon premises liability lawyer is dedicated to helping victims of property-related accidents seek justice and recover the compensation they deserve.
Premises Liability in Pennsylvania
Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility of property owners to make sure their premises are safe for visitors. When property owners fail to maintain safe conditions, and someone is injured as a result, they may be held liable. Common types of premises liability cases include the following:
- Slip and Fall Accidents: Caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or cluttered walkways.
- Negligent Security: Inadequate security measures leading to assaults, robberies, or other crimes.
- Dog Bites: Injuries caused by aggressive or unsupervised animals on the premises.
- Swimming Pool Accidents: Drownings or injuries due to poorly maintained or unsecured pools.
- Toxic Exposures: Illnesses caused by substances like mold, asbestos, or chemical spills.
In Lebanon, property owners must maintain reasonably safe conditions for lawful visitors. If you’re hurt because a property owner neglected this duty, you may have a valid premises liability claim. According to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among residents aged 65 and older. This demographic is particularly vulnerable to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe injuries such as hip fractures or head trauma.
The National Safety Council also reports that slip and fall accidents lead to more than 8 million emergency room visits in the United States each year. These incidents are a significant concern for public health and underscore the importance of maintaining safe premises.
Working with a Premises Liability Lawyer in Lebanon
Going through a premises liability case isn’t just about telling your story — it’s about proving it in a way that meets Pennsylvania’s legal standards. Insurance companies and property owners often push back hard on these cases, denying responsibility or minimizing your injuries. Having an experienced Lebanon personal injury lawyer on your side can make all the difference. At Munley Law, we take on the burden of the legal process so that you can focus on healing.
- Thorough Investigation: We collect surveillance footage, inspection reports, medical records, and witness statements to establish liability.
- Proving Negligence: We demonstrate how the property owner’s failure to act reasonably led directly to your injuries.
- Handling Insurers: Insurance companies may try to downplay your claim or push a lowball settlement. We handle all communications and fight aggressively for the full compensation you’re owed.
- Trial-Ready Representation: While many claims are settled, we are always prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Our premises liability attorneys have earned national recognition for courtroom excellence.
We understand how disruptive an accident can be to your life. Our goal is to protect your rights and help you rebuild with dignity, confidence, and care.
Steps to Take After an Injury
- Seek Medical Attention: Always prioritize your health. Even if you think the injury is minor, symptoms may worsen over time.
- Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the area where the injury occurred and note any hazardous conditions.
- Report the Incident: Whether it’s to a store manager, landlord, or homeowner, make sure the incident is officially documented.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep copies of medical bills, correspondence, and other documents related to your injury.
- Call a Lawyer: The sooner you contact Munley Law, the faster we can begin protecting your legal rights.
Statute of Limitations in Pennsylvania
Timing matters in personal injury cases. In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a premises liability lawsuit. Failing to file within this period typically means you’ll lose your right to recover any damages, no matter how valid your claim is. However, there are a few exceptions and nuances:
- Injuries to Minors: If the injured party is a minor, the two-year clock doesn’t start until their 18th birthday.
- Delayed Discovery: In rare cases, if you didn’t discover your injury right away (such as with toxic exposure), the statute might begin when you became aware—or should have become aware—of the harm.
- Claims Against Government Entities: If your injury occurred on public property (e.g., a city-owned building or sidewalk), you must file a notice of claim within just six months. These cases involve different rules and strict deadlines.
Because the statute of limitations can be complex, especially when exceptions apply, it’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. At Munley Law, we act quickly to preserve evidence, file paperwork on time, and protect your claim from being dismissed on technical grounds.
Why Choose a Lebanon Premises Liability Lawyer at Munley Law
Our firm has been representing injured individuals in Pennsylvania for over 60 years. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Local Knowledge: We’re deeply familiar with Lebanon’s courts, businesses, and municipal regulations.
- Award-Winning Team: Our attorneys are consistently recognized by Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers in America, and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
- Client-Focused: We treat you like family, not a case number. You’ll have direct access to your attorney throughout your case.
- No Fee Unless We Win: You only pay us if we recover compensation for you. And we’ve recovered millions for our liability clients.
We understand that this may be one of the most difficult times in your life. Let us help you carry the load and get you the support you need.
FAQs
What if I am partially at fault for the accident?
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% responsible and awarded $100,000, you would receive $80,000.
Can I sue if I was injured on a friend’s or relative’s property?
Yes. It’s understandable to worry about suing someone close to you, but remember — these claims are typically handled by their homeowners’ insurance, not out of pocket. You’re not punishing them; you’re seeking compensation from their insurer to cover your medical bills and recovery.
What damages can I recover in a premises liability case?
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- In some cases, punitive damages if gross negligence is proven
Every case is unique, and we’ll work with you to see that every aspect of your loss is accounted for.
Don’t Wait: Talk to a Premises Liability Lawyer Serving Lebanon Now
If you or a loved one has been injured on someone else’s property in Lebanon, don’t wait. Contact a trusted premises liability attorney at Munley Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options clearly and compassionately.
Our experienced team is here to help you understand your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Take a look at our wins. We know how overwhelming this time can be — let us handle the legal burdens so you can focus on healing.
