If I am the part owner of a property and someone is harmed on the property, what is my liability?
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If I am the part owner of a property and someone is harmed on the property, what is my liability?
Asked on July 2, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Texas
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
You and the other owner(s) of the property are all liable for the total damages (the amount of compensation the injured person is seeking to recover). As the owner or owners of the property, you are liable whether the injured person is a trespasser or guest or is on the property for business purposes.
Your liability for the personal injury claim would include compensation for the medical bills, pain and suffering, and wage loss. Compensation for the medical bills is straight reimbursement. Compensation for pain and suffering is an amount in addition to the medical bills. Compensation for wage loss is straight reimbursement.
It would be advisable to refer the matter to your property owner's insurance carrier. If the case is settled with the insurance carrier, NO lawsuit is filed. If the case is NOT settled with the insurance carrier and the person files a lawsuit against you and the other owner(s) of the property, refer the matter to your insurance carrier. Your insurance carrier will provide you with an attorney at no cost to you and will handle the lawsuit for you.
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