Premises Liability in Pennsylvania
From dark stairwells to negligent security, Pennsylvania property owners must keep their premises reasonably safe for the people they invite in.
What you should know
Premises liability covers far more than slip-and-falls — including negligent security, falling merchandise, swimming-pool hazards, and unsafe apartments. The owner's duty depends on whether you were an invitee, licensee, or trespasser, and on whether they knew or should have known about the danger.
What typically causes them
- Unsafe stairs and walkways
- Inadequate security
- Falling objects
- Swimming-pool hazards
- Building code violations
- Poor maintenance
Injuries we see
- Fractures
- Head and brain injuries
- Back and spinal injuries
- Assault injuries from poor security
- Drowning injuries
- Soft-tissue injuries
Steps to take after a premises liability
- 1
Get medical attention
- 2
Report the condition to the owner
- 3
Photograph the hazard
- 4
Get witness information
- 5
Preserve evidence
- 6
Consult an attorney
Liability turns on the visitor's status and the owner's notice of the hazard. Comparative negligence (42 Pa.C.S. § 7102) applies.
Recovery may include medical costs, lost income, future care, and pain and suffering.
In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524). Missing this deadline usually bars your claim entirely, so it is critical to act well before it runs.
Keep reading before you talk to an adjuster
Don't let a Pennsylvania premises liability ruin your future.
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