Most people have heard of crazy personal injury lawsuits in Florida where a trespasser or criminal sues the homeowner for damages. Perhaps someone breaks into a stranger’s house and ends up tripping and hurting their back. Or, they are shot while robbing someone and end up needing surgery or a wheelchair. It may sound ludicrous that these people are able to sue the homeowner for damages. However, not only is it possible, but it happens more often than you may think.
If you fall while on someone else’s property, you should expect to collect damages. You shouldn’t be left holding the bag if the accident wasn’t your fault. But it seems unfair that a homeowner would have to pay damages to someone who was not legally on their property, right? Well, the law is a bit murky on this issue.
Why Would a Trespasser Be Able to Sue for Damages?
If someone gets injured while on someone else’s property, they are able to file a claim for damages. As long as they can prove negligence, these plaintiffs are typically going to collect the money they deserve. However, they do need to prove their case.
In order to prove negligence, your personal injury attorney in Boca Raton must show the following four (4) things:
- The defendant owed you a duty of care
- They breached this duty
- You were injured
- Your injuries were caused by the defendant’s breach
For most people, this shouldn’t be all that difficult. However, as you can imagine, it would be hard to imagine how a trespasser or criminal could prove negligence. If they didn’t have a right to be on the property in the first place, how can the defendant be said to owe them a duty of care?
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney in South Florida
If you were injured while on someone else’s property, you may have a claim for damages. You should call and talk to an experienced personal injury attorney in Boca Raton right away. They can review your case and let you know if you’re entitled to damages. They can even give you an idea of what your case is worth.
Call today and schedule your initial consultation. It is absolutely free and you don’t pay a dime until you settle your case.
