As a property owner, there is a constant possibility that someone will be injured while they are residing in your home resulting in a lawsuit nobody wants. Lawsuits can be very expensive, and so it is best to always be prepared and avoid them. Here are six simple steps that will help you prevent a personal injury lawsuit from being filed against you.
The first key to avoiding a personal injury lawsuit is to be constantly monitoring your properties for potential hazards. By making rounds on a regular basis, you will be able to catch and correct potentially dangerous situations before anyone has the opportunity to get injured.
Uneven surfaces can be one of the most dangerous features that can appear on your property. Many of the lawsuits that are filed against homeowners occur because someone tripped and fell on the property. Keep an eye out for uneven pavements, large sticks, or any other potential tripping hazard. If you cannot handle something immediately, put up a sign to reduce your liability.
Another potential disaster area, that also cause lawsuits include stairwells and public steps. In order to stay protected, it is best to post warning signs or to mark off the edge of steps with a different colored piece of tape to help those who may have problems navigating staircases.
If your property has a pool on the premises, this can be another hazardous area. Make sure the pool is equipped with everything needed to help keep residents safe. A sign that says, “no diving” as well as any other safety implements like a fence should be near the pool as a warning.
Children can be a potential hazard in many different areas where adults would have little to no problem remaining safe. Any playgrounds or other areas where children may gather to play should be made as safe as possible in order to protect them and yourself. A sign that reads, “Children must be accompanied by an adult” can help your case as well.
When it comes down to it, there is nothing better that you can do for yourself than document everything and have an attorney that is trustworthy represent you. These two things may help you in the case of a lawsuit more than any other. Also, renters and visitors can also see that you are taking the measures necessary to keep them safe in your property. This shows that as a property owner, you are responsible and considerate.
RPM Central Arkansas is a property management company that offers its services across the country, while providing local market knowledge to its customers.
Photo Credit www.injury.ladylegalgroup.com
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