As a California business owner, you can be liable for slip and fall accidents that occur on your property. California law requires property owners to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition and to promptly repair any dangerous conditions that are identified. This includes taking steps to prevent slip and fall accidents, such as keeping floors clean and dry, warning customers of wet or slippery areas, and fixing any defects or hazards in the flooring.
If a slip and fall accident occurs on your property and a customer or visitor is injured, they may be able to sue you for damages. The amount of liability you may face will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of the injury and the extent to which your negligence contributed to the accident.
However, California law also recognizes comparative negligence, which means that if the person who is injured contributed to the accident in some way, their damages may be reduced in proportion to their own level of fault. For example, if a customer slips and falls on a wet floor that was clearly marked with caution signs, but was also texting on their phone and not paying attention to their surroundings, their damages may be reduced to reflect their own negligence.
To minimize your liability as a California business owner, it is important to take reasonable steps to prevent slip and fall accidents from occurring on your property. This may include regular inspections of your premises, addressing any hazards or defects promptly, and providing warning signs or other notice of potential slip and fall hazards.
If you are liable for a slip and fall accident, it is important to consult with a qualified personal injury attorney who can advise you on your legal options and help you navigate the litigation process. They may also be able to negotiate a settlement with the injured party in order to avoid a costly and time-consuming trial.
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