Iowa City, IA – There are a number of different situations where an accident happens, and an unsuspecting guest is harmed while on the property of another person or business. In some cases, the victim may have the option of bringing a civil case related to the unsafe condition of the property that caused their injury. This duty of care to maintain a property in a safe condition implicates areas of the civil law related to premises liability and negligence cases. Under these doctrines, people who are hurt by improper property maintenance and obstacles have the right to sue the person or entity that owns and controls the area. They may be able to collect an amount of compensation that is sufficient to pay for things like medical treatment, missed time from work, and lost income and wages. 

The standard of care on a property

All property owners have some kind of legal standard they must follow in terms of keeping their property safe for guests, and even unforeseen individuals and trespassers. As a general rule, there is a higher standard of care owed to people who are invited or foreseeable such as customers in a store. A lesser standard of care owed to trespassers generally does not allow the owner to create obstacles that may harm them, or even intentionally hurt someone who was not invited on the property. For the specifics of how a business or residence should be prepared for the company of others under Iowa law, a local personal injury attorney should be consulted. They can provide guidance on filing the case and the possible amount of damages available to the victim. 

Injuries on property and insurance coverage

Various types of insurance and even homeowners insurance usually includes some kind of premises liability coverage. This will assist owners with paying for their losses if they ever get sued. Most homeowners will be covered in case of a negligence claim when someone is hurt on their property. This is a standard type of liability coverage, and anyone who is concerned can contact their insurance provider to get more information. When a victim sues a property owner, it is likely that the insurance company may actually end up paying all of, or most of the damages as long as the owner has some kind of coverage. 

Getting more information about civil cases

After an injury, victims in Iowa are able to consult with an injury lawyer to discuss their situation and see if a lawsuit is warranted. Eells and Tronvold Law Offices is firm staffed by experienced attorneys who can provide personalized advice and guidance. 

Firm contact info:

Eells and Tronvold Law Offices 

1921 51st Street NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402-2400  

319-393-1020 

www.eellsandtronvold.com