Accidents and injuries can happen anytime and anywhere, and sometimes, they can occur while you are on someone else’s property. Whether you are visiting a friend’s house, shopping at a store, or simply walking along a sidewalk, the property owner has a legal responsibility to ensure your safety. However, the outcome of your injury claim can depend heavily on your legal status as a visitor on the property. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of visitors in Pennsylvania and how it can make a difference in your injury claim.
Under Pennsylvania law, visitors on someone else’s property can be classified as invitees, licensees, or trespassers. As an invitee, you are legally permitted to enter a property for a particular purpose. For example, if you are shopping at a store or dining at a restaurant, you are considered an invitee. Property owners are required to maintain a safe environment and warn invitees of any potential hazards. If you are injured while on the property, the owner may be held liable for your damages.
Licensees, on the other hand, are individuals who have the property owner’s permission to enter the premises. This category includes social guests, such as family and friends who are invited over for a party or dinner. Although property owners are still required to maintain a safe environment for licensees, they are not necessarily obligated to warn them of any potential hazards. If you are injured while on the property as a licensee, you may still be able to file an injury claim, but it may be more challenging to prove liability.
Trespassers, on the other hand, are individuals who enter a property without the owner’s permission. If you are injured while trespassing on someone’s property, it can be challenging to hold the property owner liable because you are not legally permitted to be there. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule, such as if the property owner knew that trespassers were likely to enter the property or if they intentionally harmed the trespasser.
Whether you are an invitee, a licensee, or a trespasser, it is essential to document the events leading up to your injury carefully. You should take photos of any hazards or dangerous conditions that contributed to your injury. You should also seek medical attention immediately and keep detailed records of any treatment you receive. Additionally, it is crucial to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your injury. An attorney can help you determine your legal status as a visitor on the property and guide you through the injury claim process.
In Pennsylvania, the outcome of your injury claim can depend heavily on your legal status as a visitor on someone else’s property. As an invitee, you are afforded more legal protections than a licensee or a trespasser. However, regardless of your legal status, it is essential to seek medical attention, document any dangerous conditions, and contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your injury. By understanding your legal rights as a visitor, you can take the necessary steps to protect your health and pursue compensation for your damages.