Fort Collins Premises Liability Attorney

Lawyer for Slip & Fall Accidents, Dog Bites, & Inadequate Security Cases in Fort Collins, CO

Fort Collins, with its vibrant downtown, scenic parks, and active outdoor culture, is a community where residents and visitors alike expect to feel safe as they enjoy the city's attractions. However, serious accidents can happen when property owners fail to maintain safe conditions. From a fall on an icy sidewalk to a dog bite on a hiking trail, premises liability incidents in Fort Collins can take place anytime and anywhere. These accidents often result in painful injuries, large medical expenses, and disruptions to the victim's life and livelihood.

For over 20 years, Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. has advocated for those who have been harmed by other people's negligence. Our team is prepared to investigate the conditions that led to the injury, build a strong case under Colorado's premises liability laws, and work to secure damages for medical costs, pain and suffering, lost income, and more. We will provide knowledgeable legal guidance, which is especially valuable when dealing with reluctant property owners, complex liability questions, or insurance companies that attempt to shift blame. With more than 250 5-star reviews online, you can trust us to handle your case with the care and diligence it deserves.

Legal Standards for Property Owner Liability in Colorado

In premises liability cases, state laws look at the relationship between the person who was hurt and the property owner to decide how much responsibility the owner had to keep a person safe. People visiting a business, like a store or restaurant, are given the most legal protection. Social guests, such as friends visiting someone's home, have some protection, while trespassers generally have minimal protection. Still, a property owner can be held responsible if someone gets hurt because they did not fix a dangerous condition, provide a warning, or properly check for hazards.

To win a premises liability claim, a victim usually needs to show three things: that the property owner was aware of the danger or should have known about it, that they did not fix it or warn the victim about the danger, and that this failure directly caused the injury.

Common Premises Liability Hazards in Fort Collins

Whether in local businesses, rental properties, or recreational areas, safety hazards can lead to preventable injuries. Some of the most frequent premises liability accidents in and around Fort Collins include:

• Slip and Fall Incidents: The area's winters can create dangerous walking conditions, and property owners are responsible for clearing ice and snow within a reasonable time. Similarly, owners of restaurants, stores, or other businesses must be prepared to address spilled drinks, wet floors, or poorly lit stairways to prevent tripping hazards for patrons.
• Dog Bites: On the city's network of trails, including the Poudre Trail and Spring Creek Trail, dog bites may be caused by unleashed pets. Colorado's laws allow victims of dog attacks to receive compensation for their injuries, especially when bites happen in public or on someone's property without adequate warning.
• Injuries in Student Housing and Rental Properties: With a high student population at Colorado State University, Fort Collins has numerous rental homes and apartment complexes. Property managers who do not maintain stairwells, balconies, handrails, or fire exits may be held liable when tenants or guests are injured due to unsafe conditions.
• Negligent Security: Large gatherings at venues like Canvas Stadium or community events in Old Town can create security risks if these venues are not properly managed. Inadequate lighting, broken security gates, or a lack of security staff can contribute to assaults, thefts, or other injuries.
• Playground and Park Injuries: Faulty playground equipment, uncovered sprinkler heads, or improper maintenance can result in falls, head trauma, cuts, or other injuries. The city or third-party contractors may be responsible for injuries resulting from the poor upkeep of parks and playgrounds.

Types of Injuries from Premises Liability Incidents

The nature of the injuries in a premises liability case can vary depending on the type of accident and location. Common injuries include:

• Fractured or Broken Bones: Slippery sidewalks or stairwells often lead to wrist, hip, or ankle fractures, especially for older adults or young children.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls from unsafe balconies or stair collapses in apartment buildings can result in severe spinal trauma, sometimes leading to paralysis.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Hitting one's head in a fall or being struck by falling items in a store can lead to concussions or long-term cognitive issues.
• Deep Lacerations and Scarring: Animal bites, broken glass, or sharp edges on neglected property features can cause lasting physical damage.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and bruises are common after falls, and they may require physical therapy or extended recovery time.
• Emotional Trauma: Victims of attacks may experience anxiety or post-traumatic stress, which can affect their long-term well-being.

Consult With a Skilled Fort Collins, Colorado Premises Liability Lawyer

If you were injured due to unsafe property conditions in Fort Collins, you have the right to pursue justice for your pain and suffering. Our personal injury attorney will provide straightforward advice, diligent representation, and committed support. Contact our office at 970-225-2190 today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you confidently move forward. You will not have to pay legal fees unless we win your case.