What Evidence Do You Need to Strengthen Your Premises Liability Claim?

Premises liability claims arise when a property owner’s negligence leads to someone getting injured. Whether it’s a wet floor at a grocery store or a poorly lit staircase in an apartment complex, the injured party must prove the property owner failed to maintain safe conditions. To do this effectively, evidence is critical. Strong evidence not only strengthens your claim but also improves your chances of recovering compensation for your injuries and losses.

At the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell, we understand the importance of building a solid case. Below, we outline the key types of evidence essential to pursuing a successful premises liability claim.

Photographs of the Accident Scene

Visual proof can be one of the most compelling forms of evidence in a premises liability case. If possible, take pictures at the scene right after the incident occurs. Capture any hazards that caused your injury, such as:

• Spilled liquids
• Snow or ice
• Broken handrails
• Faulty lighting
• Uneven or cracked flooring

Photos of the hazardous condition can help establish the property owner’s negligence. Additionally, pictures of your injuries and property damage, such as torn clothing or broken personal items, can further support your claim by highlighting the physical impact of the accident.

Witness Statements

If anyone witnessed your accident, their testimony can serve as key evidence. Obtain their contact information and a brief account of what they saw. Witness statements provide an impartial account of the events, which can be critical in cases where liability is disputed. For example, a witness might confirm that warnings, such as “Wet Floor” signs, were not present at the scene.

Our legal team frequently works with witnesses to gather objective and detailed statements about what occurred. This step helps to strengthen your case.

Medical Records

Proper documentation of your injuries plays a significant role in any personal injury case. Medical records show the severity of your injuries and link them to the accident. This includes:

• Emergency room reports
• Diagnostic images like X-rays or MRIs
• Treatment plans
• Ongoing rehabilitation needs

By presenting comprehensive medical evidence, we can clearly demonstrate the extent of your physical injuries and their impact on your life.

Incident Reports

Reporting your accident to the property owner or manager is not just important for safety reasons; it creates a formal record of the incident. Most businesses and some residential properties require incident reports to be completed when injuries occur. This document may include details such as the time, date and cause of the accident. When paired with other evidence, an incident report can validate your claim.

Surveillance Footage

Many commercial properties have surveillance cameras that monitor the premises. If the accident was recorded, this footage could provide a clear and objective view of what transpired. Footage may reveal the unsafe condition that caused the accident or confirm the lack of timely action by the property owner to remedy the hazard.

We work to obtain and preserve any relevant video evidence from the property so it is included in your case.

Contact the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell

A successful premises liability claim requires thorough evidence collection and a strategic approach to presenting your case. At the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell, we take these burdens off your shoulders so you can focus on recovery. Our experienced attorneys dedicate themselves to protecting your future by building the strongest possible case on your behalf.

If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property, contact us today for a consultation. We’ll review your case, advise you on next steps and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.