Premises Liability Beyond Slip and Falls: Other Common Hazards in Wisconsin

Learn About Common Safety Hazards in Wisconsin Commercial Properties

Were you recently injured on a commercial property due to dangerous conditions or owner negligence? Did your injuries result in medical bills, lost pay, or pain and suffering? If so, you may be eligible for compensation for your damages.

In this blog, we define premises liability, list common safety hazards in commercial properties, and provide tips on what to do if you’re injured. With the help of a Wisconsin personal injury lawyer, you can get compensation for your losses. Read on to find out more.

What Is Premises Liability in Wisconsin?

Premises liability is the legal responsibility of a business owner to maintain a safe environment for customers and visitors.

If you’re injured due to unsafe conditions or negligence on the property, the owner, manager, or staff is liable for damages resulting from that injury. Premises liability can include hazards such as poor lighting, unprotected construction, inadequate security or surveillance, improper storage, or damaged equipment. If these or other hazards lead to injury, your premises liability lawyer can file a claim against the property.

Owner Responsibilities for Maintaining a Safe Property

Wisconsin Statute 101.11 (Wisconsin Safe Place Statute) requires employers and commercial property owners to maintain a safe environment for all employees, customers, and visitors. The law establishes a higher standard of care for property owners than common law negligence.

What are property owners responsible for? Here are the requirements of the statute:

• Building and maintaining safe commercial buildings for the public
• Adding safety devices and safeguards to make hazardous areas safe
• Using safe methods and processes during business operation
• Not removing or interfering with safety devices or safeguards
• Addressing safety issues, including repairs and maintenance, immediately or as they occur

In short, Wisconsin employers or property owners must do everything possible to protect the safety of all occupants on their property. Their responsibilities extend to taking all necessary steps to preserve the life, health, safety, and welfare of all employees, customers, guests, and visitors.

Common Commercial Safety and Health Hazards

Many accidents in commercial spaces occur due to negligence, improper planning, inadequate training, or poor execution. When commercial proprieties are unsafe, guests can suffer from injuries, which spiral into high medical bills, lost wages during recovery, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Some of the most common commercial safety and health hazards include:

• Fire Safety Issues: Blocked fire exits, malfunctioning alarms, inadequate emergency lighting, or lack of proper fire suppression systems.
• Parking Lot Hazards: Potholes, inadequate lighting, unclear traffic patterns, and icy conditions.
• Falling Objects: Improperly secured shelving, merchandise, or signage that could fall on visitors.
• Electrical Hazards: Exposed wiring, overloaded outlets, or faulty electrical equipment.
• Inadequate Security: Poor lighting in secluded areas, lack of surveillance, or insufficient crowd control measures.
• Hazardous Substances: Improper storage or handling of cleaning chemicals or other potentially harmful materials.
• Structural Issues: Unstable railings, damaged stairs, or deteriorating building components.

Accidents also happen when staff fail to display visible signage around the property. Something as simple as putting up a sign can alert visitors to construction or hazards and prevent a wide range of accidents.

What Should I Do if I’m Injured on a Commercial Property?

If you’re injured on a commercial property and seeking compensation for related expenses or losses, you need to act quickly. Seek medical attention, report the accident, and consult a Wisconsin premises liability attorney immediately. The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to prove your case and negotiate a fair settlement with the property owner.

Follow these steps if you’re injured on a commercial property:

Step 1: Seek Medical Treatment

Your safety and wellness are your top priority. Visit the ER or seek medical treatment without delay. Even if you believe you’re okay, getting an evaluation from your doctor can rule out internal injuries and create valuable evidence for your claim. Keep all medical invoices, receipts, and reports.

Step 2: Report the Accident

Most businesses have a procedure for reporting accidents. If your injuries allow, try to fill out an accident report on the spot. Provide details of the accident and what caused it. If possible, limit your conversation with the property owner or staff.

Step 3: Consult a Wisconsin Personal Injury Attorney

Consult a personal injury attorney who has handled premises liability cases in Wisconsin. Contact their law firm within 24 to 48 hours of the accident. If the attorney invites you to the office for a free case review, bring all documents related to the accident.

Step 4: Review the Accident

Your attorney will investigate the accident to uncover the facts. They will gather all necessary documents, speak with eyewitnesses, view videos or photos, and, if necessary, hire an expert who can support your claim. From there, the attorney will prepare your case.

Step 5: File an Accident Claim

After your attorney has prepared your case, they will file a claim with the property owner’s insurance company. The lawyer will negotiate a settlement with the insurer or property owner. They will calculate your damages and work with the insurer to get you a fair compensation.

Contact Us Today for a Free Case Review

If you’re injured while on a commercial property due to the property owner’s negligence, you may be entitled to receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost pay, or other damages. Contact us to get started with your premises liability case.

Fill out our online form or call Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers for a free case review from one of our Wisconsin personal injury lawyers.