If you’re hurt on unsafe property in Galveston County, you may have a premises liability claim. Property owners have a legal duty to keep their premises safe. When they fail to fix or warn about hazards, like wet floors, broken stairs, or poor lighting, they can be held responsible for resulting injuries. Bill T. Wells, Of Counsel to The Payne Law Group, helps injured Texans recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain caused by dangerous property conditions.
Bill T. Wells is a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer with decades of experience representing victims of property negligence across Texas. He provides personal attention and strategic guidance throughout the entire process.
Why Choose Bill T. Wells for a Premises Liability Case
Choosing the right personal injury attorney can make all the difference in recovering fair compensation. Bill T. Wells offers:
- Certified Trial Experience – Board Certification in Personal Injury Trial Law reflects years of focused practice and proven results in Texas courts.
- Personalized Service – We treat every client as a person, not a file. You’ll always know where your case stands.
- Strong Negotiation and Litigation Skills – We’ve successfully resolved injury claims involving unsafe properties, slip-and-fall accidents, and negligent maintenance.
- No Fees Unless We Win – You pay nothing upfront.
What Responsibilities Do Property Owners Have in Texas?
Texas law requires property owners and occupiers to maintain reasonably safe conditions for visitors. Their legal duty depends on the visitor’s status:
- Invitees (customers, tenants) – Must be protected from dangers the owner knew or should have known about.
- Licensees (social guests) – Must be warned of hidden hazards.
- Trespassers – Usually not protected, unless the property owner acts intentionally or a child is involved.
Owners who ignore unsafe conditions, skip inspections, or fail to repair known hazards can be held liable when those conditions cause injuries.
What Are Common Hazards That Cause Premises Liability Injuries?
Hazardous conditions appear in both residential and commercial settings. Some of the most common include:
- Slippery or freshly mopped floors without warning signs
- Loose carpeting or cracked tiles
- Broken steps, railings, or uneven pavement
- Inadequate lighting in parking areas or hallways
- Lack of security leading to assaults or thefts
- Falling objects in retail or warehouse settings
Examples:
- A shopper slips on a spill in a grocery store aisle.
- A tenant trips on a broken stair in an apartment complex.
- A hotel guest falls because of poor lighting in a stairwell.
Each of these could justify a premises liability claim if the property owner failed to correct or warn about the danger.
What Must You Prove to Win a Premises Liability Claim?
To recover compensation, your attorney must show that the property owner or manager was negligent. Generally, you’ll need to prove:
- The owner owed you a duty of care.
- The owner knew or should have known about the hazard.
- The owner failed to fix or warn about it.
- You suffered an injury directly caused by that failure.
Evidence such as incident reports, witness statements, and photographs of the unsafe condition can be key to proving your claim.
What Compensation Can Victims Recover?
If you were injured because of unsafe conditions, you may be entitled to damages such as:
- Medical expenses and future care
- Lost income or loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress or anxiety
- Physical impairment
Our firm’s goal is to help you recover the full compensation you deserve so you can move forward with confidence.
How Do Property Owners and Insurers Defend These Claims?
Property owners and insurers often argue that the danger was “open and obvious” or that you were responsible for your own injuries. Our team understands these tactics. We conduct thorough investigations and, when needed, bring in experts to prove that the property owner’s negligence, not your actions, caused your injuries.
Ready to Take Action After a Property Injury in Galveston County?
Don’t delay—Texas has strict deadlines for filing a premises liability claim. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights.
At Bill T. Wells, Of Counsel to The Payne Law Group, we’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
FAQ: Galveston County Premises Liability
What should I do right after an injury on someone else’s property?
Get medical care, report the incident, take photos, and contact an attorney before speaking to any insurance representative.
Can I recover compensation if I was partly at fault?
Yes. Under Texas’s comparative negligence rule, you may still recover damages if you were less than 51% responsible for the accident.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Typically, you have two years from the date of injury to file a premises liability lawsuit in Texas. Acting early helps preserve vital evidence.