When a simple outing turns into a devastating injury due to a property owner’s negligence, the physical pain is only the beginning. The emotional stress, financial pressure, and legal confusion that follow can feel overwhelming.
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we understand that life can change in an instant.
As a trusted Minneapolis personal injury lawyer, we help victims regain control, hold negligent parties accountable, and pursue the compensation they need to move forward with confidence and dignity.
What Is A Premises Liability Claim?
Premises liability refers to a legal concept that holds property owners responsible when someone is injured on their property due to unsafe conditions that the property owner knew or should have known about. Under Minnesota law, owners have a duty to maintain their property in a reasonably safe condition. This duty applies to homeowners, landlords, business operators, and even municipalities.
Injuries can occur in numerous places, including grocery stores, restaurants, office buildings, sidewalks, apartment complexes, and public parks. When these spaces are not correctly maintained or hazards are ignored, visitors can suffer serious harm.
As a premises liability attorney in Minneapolis, we help victims understand whether they have a valid claim. If the property owner failed to address known dangers or provide adequate warning, they may be legally liable for the injuries that occurred.
Common Types Of Premises Liability Cases We Handle
Premises liability cases come in many forms. Each situation involves its own set of facts, but the common thread is negligence. As an experienced injury lawyer in Minneapolis, MN, we handle a wide range of these complex cases, including:
Slip And Fall Accidents
Slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting can all lead to serious falls. In retail stores or restaurants, spills that go unattended are a common cause of injury.
Snow And Ice Injuries
Minnesota winters create unique hazards. Property owners are required to remove snow and ice in a timely and effective manner. Failing to do so can result in devastating injuries. However, these cases are based on reasonableness, and the property owner has a reasonable amount of time after the hazard becomes apparent to remedy or warn of it.
Inadequate Security
If a property owner fails to provide reasonable security and someone is assaulted or harmed, that may form the basis of a premises liability claim.
Animal Attacks
Animal owners may be held responsible for attacks that occur on their property, especially if they were aware of the animal’s dangerous tendencies.
Swimming Pool Accidents
Pools must be fenced appropriately and maintained to protect guests. Injuries, especially involving children, can lead to tragic consequences.
Broken Railings Or Staircases
Unsafe stairwells or loose handrails often contribute to serious falls in apartment buildings, hotels, or public venues.
Parking Lot And Walkway Hazards
Cracked pavement, inadequate lighting, or insufficient signage can lead to falls or pedestrian accidents.
In all of these cases, we build strong, evidence-based claims to hold negligent parties accountable.
What Must Be Proven In A Premises Liability Claim?
To successfully pursue a premises liability case, our team must prove four key elements:
- Duty of Care: The property owner had a legal obligation to maintain a safe environment for visitors or tenants.
- Breach of Duty: That obligation was not met due to negligence, such as ignoring a known hazard.
- Causation: The unsafe condition directly caused the injury.
- Damages: The injured person suffered measurable harm such as medical expenses, lost wages, or long-term disability.
Our experience as personal injury attorneys in Minneapolis, Minnesota, enables us to effectively demonstrate each of these elements in court or during settlement negotiations.
Types Of Evidence Used To Prove Liability
To support a premises liability claim, we gather and preserve several forms of evidence. This documentation helps establish fault and strengthens the case. Important evidence includes:
- Photographs or Video Footage: These visuals capture the hazardous condition and demonstrate that it existed at the time of the incident.
- Witness Statements: Observations from those present can provide powerful support for your version of events.
- Incident Reports: Reports filed with store managers, security personnel, or police can be valuable.
- Maintenance Logs: These documents reveal whether the property owner addressed or ignored ongoing hazards.
- Medical Records: Medical evaluations confirm the nature, extent, and cause of your injuries.
- Expert Testimony: In some cases, safety or engineering experts can explain how the accident could have been prevented.
We work diligently to obtain and analyze every piece of evidence necessary to achieve justice for our clients.
Who Is Legally Responsible For A Premises Injury?
Responsibility in a premises liability case depends on several factors. As a premises liability attorney in Minneapolis, we carefully examine the chain of ownership and management to determine all liable parties. Common defendants include:
- Property Owners: Those who own homes, businesses, or land are often legally responsible for maintaining their properties.
- Business Operators or Tenants: When a business leases space, it may be responsible for the condition of its premises.
- Property Managers: Those hired to maintain buildings or facilities may be liable if they fail to address hazards.
We analyze contracts, leases, and maintenance agreements to identify the correct party and pursue justice on your behalf.
How Shared Fault Impacts Your Claim In Minnesota
Minnesota follows a legal principle known as comparative fault. This means that an injured party can still recover damages even if they were partially at fault for the accident, as long as their share of fault does not exceed 50 percent.
For example, if you slipped on ice outside a store but were also looking at your phone when it happened, a court might assign you 20 percent of the fault. In that case, your total compensation would be reduced by 20 percent.
Understanding how comparative fault works is essential to protecting your claim. We work to minimize any blame unfairly placed on you, ensuring your right to compensation is preserved.
Time Limits For Filing A Premises Liability Lawsuit In Minnesota
In most cases, Minnesota law allows injured individuals six years from the date of injury to file a premises liability lawsuit based on negligence. Some types of cases may have shorter deadlines, so it is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer to protect your rights.
Failing to act within these legal deadlines can result in losing your right to recover compensation. That is why we encourage injured clients to contact us as soon as possible. Early legal action allows us to preserve evidence, speak with witnesses, and meet every legal deadline with confidence.
Types Of Compensation Available To Victims
A serious injury can affect every aspect of a person’s life. As a trusted Minneapolis premises liability lawyer, we fight for full and fair compensation. Damages may include:
- Medical Expenses: Emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future treatments.
- Lost Wages: Time missed from work during recovery, as well as reduced earning capacity.
- Pain And Suffering: Physical discomfort, emotional distress, and psychological trauma.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to participate in hobbies, sports, or social activities.
- Permanent Disability: Long-term impairments that impact mobility or independence.
- Wrongful Death Damages: In fatal cases, surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral costs and the loss of companionship, guidance, and the relationship.
We evaluate every client’s unique situation and pursue the highest possible recovery.
Why Choose Nelson Personal Injury, LLC?
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we bring more than just legal knowledge to the table. Founding attorney Timothy Nelson has over 40 years of experience, and current owner Matt Nelson has over 15 years of experience advocating for injured clients across Minnesota. Our team has successfully handled a wide range of complex premises liability cases.
We are committed to clear communication, compassionate support, and relentless advocacy. We do not charge any fees unless we recover compensation for you. From the initial consultation to the final verdict or settlement, you can expect personal attention and professional care.
We understand that healing from an injury can be a challenging process. Let us carry the legal burden while you focus on recovery.
What Our Clients Say
One of our clients suffered a serious back injury after slipping on ice outside an apartment complex. We were able to prove that the property owner failed to salt the walkway despite several complaints from tenants. Our team secured a six-figure settlement, which enabled the client to cover their medical bills and care for their family during recovery.
Clients frequently praise our responsiveness, transparency, and compassionate approach. These values are the foundation of our legal practice.
What To Do Immediately After A Premises Injury
Your actions following an injury can significantly impact your case. We recommend the following steps:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the priority.
- Report the Incident: Notify the property owner, manager, or security staff.
- Take Photos or Video: Document the hazard and the scene.
- Gather Witness Information: Names and contact details are critical.
- Avoid Discussing Fault: Do not make statements to insurers before speaking with an attorney.
- Contact Our Office: The sooner we begin the investigation, the stronger your case will be.
We provide guidance at every step to ensure your rights are protected.
The Value Of Hiring A Local Minneapolis Attorney
Working with a local Minneapolis premises liability lawyer offers unique advantages. We are familiar with Minnesota laws, court procedures, and insurance practices. Our relationships with local investigators, medical experts, and legal professionals enhance your case preparation.
We are accessible for in-person meetings, scene inspections, and court appearances. Our deep roots in the Minneapolis community help us build stronger, more successful cases for our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Still Recover Compensation If I Was Partially At Fault?
Yes. Under Minnesota’s comparative fault rule, you can still recover damages as long as you are not more than 50 percent at fault.
Is A Report Necessary For My Claim?
While not required, having an official incident report can support your case. If one is not available, we can still build a strong claim using other evidence.
How Long Does A Premises Liability Case Take?
Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the case. Some settle within 6 to 12 months, while others may require litigation. We work efficiently while never compromising on results.
Schedule A Free Consultation Today
If you or a loved one has been injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, contact us today. We offer free, no-obligation consultations. There are no upfront costs, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
Let a skilled personal injury attorney in Minneapolis, Minnesota, help you protect your rights and rebuild your future. Call Nelson Personal Injury, LLC now and take the first step toward justice.
