Slip and Fall Accidents: Determining Liability in Ohio
Slip and fall accidents can lead to serious injuries and complex legal questions. In Ohio, determining liability involves understanding the duties of property owners and the responsibilities of visitors.
Property Owner’s Duty of Care
In Ohio, property owners are legally obligated to maintain safe premises for lawful visitors. This includes regular inspections and timely addressing of hazards. Failure to do so may constitute negligence, making the owner liable for resulting injuries. Learn more from Nolo’s guide to Ohio slip and fall laws.
Visitor’s Responsibility
Visitors must exercise reasonable care for their own safety. Ohio’s “open and obvious” doctrine states that if a hazard is clearly visible, property owners may not be held liable, as individuals are expected to notice and avoid such dangers.
Comparative Negligence in Ohio
Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule. If an injured party is found partially at fault, their compensation may be reduced proportionally. For example, being 20% responsible means receiving only 80% of the awarded damages. See more at Colombo Law’s blog.
Statute of Limitations
Victims have two years from the accident date to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Ohio. Prompt action is crucial to preserve evidence and meet legal deadlines. Read more here.
Exceptions to Liability
- Unreasonably Dangerous Conditions: Property owners might be liable if a hazard is more dangerous than a visitor could anticipate. Source: FDS Law Blog.
- Unnatural Accumulations: Owners may be responsible for injuries caused by hazards they created or neglected, such as water from a leaking gutter freezing into ice.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Navigating slip and fall claims in Ohio can be complex. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help assess the validity of your claim, gather necessary evidence, and advocate on your behalf. If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact Slaglekotnik Law through our secure online form to schedule a free consultation.
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For more information, visit Nolo’s full guide on Ohio slip and fall liability.
