This Halloween, you should make sure as a homeowner you are taking the right steps in ensuring your property is safe for trick-or-treaters. Halloween is a beloved holiday by most, but it is one of the most dangerous. It is typical for a homeowner to decorate their property with elaborate props which can be a hazard for anyone visiting. These decorations could cause any visitors on your property to trip or fall which could lead to serious injuries. If you are handing out candy to trick-or-treaters, you are inviting them onto your property, and are responsible for their safety. As a homeowner, you must remove any danger that poses a threat to any visitors. A homeowner must take several steps to ensure that their property is safe for trick-or-treaters when they arrive for candy. To ensure you have taken the right steps in protecting your property as a homeowner this Halloween, contact a devoted St. Lucie County Personal Injury Lawyer who can assist you.
How can I prepare myself as a homeowner for trick-o-treaters?
- Make sure your yard and walkways leading up to your home are well-lit
- Make sure your steps are stable
- Make sure all lighting is grounded
- Use battery-operated candles instead of open flames in jack-o-lanterns
- Leave pets inside your home and away from trick-o-treaters
- Keep the property free of obstacles
- Check your smoke detectors
- Assure you have a home security alarm
- Make sure visitors are aware if there are any hazards you cannot fix in time by blocking off the area
- If you are backing out of a driveway or parking lot, be aware of your surroundings and yield to trick-o-treaters
- If you are not participating in Halloween activities, turn off all of your outdoor lights, but ensure walkways are still clear of any obstacle
What is premises liability?
If you are a homeowner, you need to be careful of premises liability this Halloween. Premises liability states that if a visitor is injured on someone else’s property, and the property owner is found to be at any degree of fault, then the homeowner will be held liable for any damages. Anyone who is hurt while on your property can file a claim against you. In Florida, the statute of limitations states that you have four years from the date the injury was inflicted to file a claim. If you fail to do so, you will be barred from ever doing so. Florida limits the time you have to file, don’t hesitate to reach out to a knowledgeable Port St. Lucie Premises Liability Lawyer who can help you take the necessary precautions to ensure your home’s safety.
Contact our experienced Port St. Lucie Firm
Here at The Florida Personal Injury Law Team, we understand the detrimental effects that an injury can have on an individual and his or her family. Contact us today for help.
