What Premises Liability Covers
Premises liability is broader than slip and falls. It includes negligent security that allows an assault, inadequate lighting, defective stairways and railings, swimming pool and spa accidents, falling objects, dog attacks on a property, and dangerous conditions in apartments, hotels, and parking structures. The common thread is that a property owner or manager failed to address a foreseeable danger.
Negligent Security in Nevada
Nevada's nightlife, casinos, and large entertainment venues create unique negligent security claims. When a business fails to provide adequate lighting, security personnel, or crowd control, and a patron is assaulted or robbed as a result, the business may be liable for failing to protect its guests from a foreseeable risk. These cases require careful proof of what the owner knew about prior incidents in the area.
The Owner's Duty and Your Burden
Property owners must use reasonable care to discover and fix hazards or warn visitors about them. To recover, you generally must show the owner knew or should have known about the danger and failed to act. Surveillance footage, maintenance and security records, prior incident reports, and expert testimony often make the difference. Under Nevada's modified comparative negligence rule under NRS 41.141, which lets you recover as long as you are not more than 50 percent at fault, partial fault does not necessarily bar your claim.
Compensation in Premises Cases
Depending on the incident, you may recover for medical bills, future care, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and in assault cases for the lasting emotional trauma. The strength of a premises claim usually depends on how well the dangerous condition and the owner's knowledge of it can be documented.
Injured in Nevada? Get a free, confidential case review today. There's no obligation, and you pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a premises liability claim arising when a property owner fails to provide reasonable security — such as lighting or guards — and a patron is harmed in a foreseeable assault or crime.
Often the owner or manager, but liability can also reach a security contractor, property management company, or tenant, depending on who controlled the area.
Generally two years from the date of injury under NRS 11.190(4)(e).
This page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Nevada attorney.