Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, from grocery stores and restaurants to office buildings and apartment complexes. In Las Vegas, property owners have a legal duty to keep their premises safe for visitors. When they fail to do so, serious injuries can occur, leaving victims with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, understanding the responsibilities of property owners can help you determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim.

Legal Obligations of Property Owners

Under Nevada law, property owners and managers must maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. This applies to both private and commercial properties, including businesses, rental properties, and public spaces. Failing to uphold this duty can result in liability if someone gets injured due to a hazardous condition.

Identifying Dangerous Conditions

Common hazards that lead to slip and fall accidents include:

• Wet or slippery floors without proper warning signs
• Uneven or cracked sidewalks and walkways
• Torn carpets or loose flooring
• Poor lighting in stairwells or parking lots
• Cluttered or obstructed walkways
• Potholes in parking lots
• Broken or missing handrails on stairs

Property owners must regularly inspect their premises and address these hazards promptly. If an issue cannot be fixed immediately, they should place visible warnings to alert visitors of the danger.

When a Property Owner is Liable

To hold a property owner responsible for a slip and fall injury, you must prove negligence. This means demonstrating the following:

• The property owner knew or should have known about the hazard – If a spill was present for an extended period or a broken sidewalk remained unfixed for weeks, the owner may be liable.
• The owner failed to address the danger in a reasonable timeframe – Neglecting to clean up spills, fix broken flooring, or warn visitors of risks can constitute negligence.
• The hazard directly caused your injuries – You must show that your fall resulted in specific harm, such as fractures, head trauma, or other injuries.

If these elements are met, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Differences Between Invitees, Licensees, and Trespassers

A property owner’s responsibility varies based on the legal status of the person on the property. Nevada law generally classifies visitors into three categories:

• Invitees – These are individuals who enter a property for business purposes, such as customers in a store or tenants in an apartment complex. Property owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees, meaning they must actively inspect for hazards and address them in a timely manner.
• Licensees – These are social guests, such as friends or family members visiting a private home. Property owners must warn them of known dangers but do not have a duty to regularly inspect for hazards.
• Trespassers – Those who enter a property without permission are owed the least duty of care. Property owners do not have to make their premises safe for trespassers, but they cannot intentionally create hazards that cause harm.

How Comparative Negligence Affects Slip and Fall Claims

Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are partially at fault for your fall, your compensation may be reduced. For example, if you were distracted by your phone and failed to notice a wet floor, the court may assign you a percentage of fault. If you are found to be more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages.

Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident

If you suffer a fall due to unsafe conditions, taking the right steps can strengthen your claim:

1. Report the incident – Notify the property owner, manager, or landlord as soon as possible.
2. Document the scene – Take photos of the hazard that caused your fall, such as spilled liquid, broken stairs, or poor lighting.
3. Gather witness information – If anyone saw your fall, their statements could support your case.
4. Seek medical attention – Even if your injuries seem minor, some symptoms take time to appear. A medical record also serves as evidence.
5. Consult a personal injury lawyer – An attorney can help determine if you have a strong case and guide you through the legal process.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Property owners and their insurance companies often try to shift blame onto the injured party. They may argue that you were not paying attention, wore improper footwear, or that the hazard was clearly marked. Having an experienced personal injury attorney can help counter these tactics and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Moving Forward After a Slip and Fall Injury

If you were injured in a slip and fall accident due to a property owner’s negligence, you may have a right to seek damages. Holding property owners accountable not only helps you recover losses but also encourages safer conditions for others.

Speaking with a Las Vegas personal injury attorney can provide clarity on your legal options and help you navigate the claims process. Protect your rights by seeking professional legal advice as soon as possible.