【法律】Premises Liability in California: When Are Property Owners Responsible for Injury or Death? | BECKER LAW GROUP

Becker Law Group, with offices in Pasadena and Alhambra, is a leading California law firm representing victims and families in premises liability cases. The firm provides bilingual, survivor-first advocacy for individuals harmed on private, commercial, or public property—handling cases from slip-and-fall accidents to fatal injuries resulting from dangerous conditions or negligent security.

Legal Framework in California
Premises liability refers to the responsibility of property owners, occupiers, landlords, or managers to maintain safe conditions and prevent foreseeable harm to those lawfully present on the property.
California Civil Code §1714 and related statutes impose a duty of care on all property owners. This includes residences, businesses, apartment complexes, retail stores, recreational facilities, hotels, and even vacant land in some cases.

When Are Property Owners Liable?
A property owner may be held liable for injuries or death if:

• There was a dangerous condition on the property (e.g., wet floors, broken stairs, inadequate lighting, lack of security, unsafe wiring, or known hazards)

• The owner knew or should have known about the hazard (actual or constructive notice)

• The owner failed to repair, remove, or warn about the hazard within a reasonable time

• This failure directly caused the injury or death

Common Types of Premises Liability Cases

• Slip/trip and fall accidents (spills, uneven pavement, ice, etc.)

• Injuries from falling objects or defective construction

• Assaults or criminal attacks due to inadequate security (negligent security)

• Swimming pool accidents, elevator/escalator injuries

• Fire, explosion, or toxic exposure incidents

• Dog bites (in some cases)

Who Can Bring a Claim?

• Any person lawfully present on the property (customers, tenants, guests, contractors)

• In some cases, trespassers (if the owner knew of their presence and hazards)

• Family members may bring wrongful death claims if the victim was killed

Damages Recoverable

• Economic damages: Medical bills, lost wages, future care, property damage, funeral/burial costs (for death)

• Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship and enjoyment of life

• Punitive damages: In rare cases, for egregious or intentional misconduct

Special Considerations

• Comparative Fault: California law allows injured parties to recover damages even if they are partially at fault; compensation is reduced by the victim’s percentage of fault.

• Statute of Limitations: Most claims must be filed within two years of the injury or death. Claims against government property/entities require notice within six months.

• Immigrant/Non-English-speaking victims: Legal rights apply to all, regardless of immigration status; Becker Law Group offers Mandarin, Cantonese, and Spanish support.

Practical Steps for Victims and Families

1. Seek medical attention and document all injuries

2. Report the incident to property management and obtain a written report

3. Take photos/video of the scene and hazard

4. Gather witness contact information and preserve relevant evidence

5. Consult an experienced premises liability attorney promptly

Conclusion
Premises liability law in California holds property owners accountable for preventable harm. With the right evidence and legal strategy, victims and their families can recover compensation and drive improvements in property safety. Becker Law Group’s bilingual, survivor-centered approach ensures every client receives effective, dignified advocacy at every step.

Sources:

• California Civil Code §1714 and case law

• Judicial Council of California: Premises liability resources

• Becker Law Group premises liability litigation center

• [LA Times, Reuters: High-profile premises injury cases]