Joplin Premises Liability Lawyer

Protecting the Rights of the Injured in Joplin, MO

If you or a loved one suffered an injury due to a dangerous condition on someone else's property, you may be entitled to compensation under Missouri’s premises liability laws. At Bishop & Hayes P.C., our experienced Joplin premises liability attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process and pursue the financial recovery you deserve.

Premises liability cases can be complex, especially when property owners or insurance companies try to deny responsibility. You need a skilled attorney who knows how to build strong claims and fight for your rights. Our firm has the local experience and legal insight needed to hold negligent property owners accountable.

Call (417) 479-3510 today or fill out our online contact form to get started.

Missouri Premises Liability Law

Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners and occupiers responsible for maintaining a reasonably safe environment for visitors. In Missouri, the law distinguishes between different types of visitors: invitees, licensees, and trespassers. 

The duty of care owed by a property owner varies based on the status of the visitor.

• Invitees (such as customers in a store) are owed the highest duty of care. Property owners must regularly inspect for hazards and fix or warn about dangerous conditions.
• Licensees (such as social guests) must be warned about known dangers that may not be obvious.
• Trespassers are generally not owed a duty of care, except in specific situations, such as when children are involved and the attractive nuisance doctrine applies.

To win a premises liability claim in Missouri, you must typically prove:

1. The property owner had a duty to maintain safe conditions.
2. That duty was breached through negligence or recklessness.
3. The breach caused your injury.
4. You suffered damages as a result.

Common Types of Premises Liability Cases

Premises liability can cover a wide range of accidents and incidents. Our Joplin premises liability attorneys at Bishop & Hayes P.C. have handled cases involving:

• Slip and Fall Accidents: These are among the most common premises liability claims. Hazards like wet floors, uneven pavement, poor lighting, or icy walkways can cause serious injuries. Property owners are expected to identify and address these issues in a timely manner.
• Trip and Fall Accidents: Trip hazards such as exposed wiring, loose carpets, broken stairs, or cluttered walkways can also lead to dangerous falls. Elderly individuals are especially at risk of fractures and head injuries.
• Negligent Security: If a property owner fails to provide adequate security and a visitor is assaulted or robbed, the owner could be held liable. This commonly occurs in parking garages, apartment complexes, or hotels where lighting or security staff is inadequate.
• Dog Bites and Animal Attacks: Pet owners may be held liable if their animals attack someone, especially on their property. Missouri has specific rules governing liability for dog bites.
• Swimming Pool Accidents: Drownings and near-drownings often occur at unsupervised or poorly maintained pools. Property owners must follow local safety codes and may be responsible for fencing, locks, and supervision.
• Falling Merchandise or Objects: Retail stores and warehouses must ensure shelves are secure and goods are stacked safely. Falling objects can cause traumatic injuries, especially to children.
• Elevator and Escalator Accidents: When building owners or maintenance companies neglect routine inspections or repairs, these machines can become deadly.

FAQs About Premises Liability Claims in Joplin, MO

How long do I have to file a premises liability claim in Missouri?

Missouri law generally gives you five years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, acting quickly improves your chances of gathering strong evidence.

What kind of compensation can I recover?

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Property damage (if applicable)

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule. This means your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you could still recover 80% of your total damages.

What if the accident happened on government property?

Claims against the government are subject to different rules and shorter timeframes. It’s essential to consult a premises liability attorney immediately if your injury occurred on public property.

Do I need a lawyer to file a premises liability claim?

While it’s not legally required, having an experienced Joplin premises liability attorney can make a significant difference. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. A lawyer can handle negotiations, gather evidence, and represent you in court if necessary.

Contact a Joplin Premises Liability Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been injured due to unsafe property conditions in Joplin, don’t wait. The sooner you take legal action, the better your chances of a successful claim. Contact Bishop & Hayes P.C. today for a free consultation with a knowledgeable Joplin premises liability lawyer. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.

Contact us today at (417) 479-3510 for a no-cost consultation to discuss your case.