A premises liability claims differ from the negligence theory that is common with most civil claims. Instead of proving that the property owner negligently caused an injury, a successful claimant and their local attorney must establish that owner or occupier failed to take reasonable steps to address a dangerous hazard on their property.
Much like with a standard negligence case, a claimant must show the owner or occupier of the property owed them a duty of care. However, that duty differs depending on the claimant’s relationship with the property. Specifically, the duty hinges on whether the claimant was an invitee, licensee, or trespasser.