Injured In Someone’s Home? Know Your Rights in Minnesota

Understanding Premises Liability in Minnesota

Under Minnesota law, homeowners have a legal duty to maintain a reasonably safe environment for visitors and guests. If they fail to do so and someone is injured as a result, they may be held liable under premises liability laws.

However, not all injuries automatically lead to compensation. The key question is whether the homeowner acted negligently — meaning they knew (or should have known) about a dangerous condition and failed to fix it or warn visitors about it.

Who Is Covered Under Premises Liability Laws?

Minnesota law classifies visitors into three categories, which determine the level of care a property owner owes them:

• Invitees: Individuals who enter a property for business-related reasons (e.g., contractors, repair technicians, or delivery workers). Homeowners owe them the highest duty of care, including regularly inspecting the property for hazards and addressing potential dangers.
• Licensees: Social guests fall under this category. While homeowners don’t have to inspect for unknown hazards, they must warn guests about any known dangers (such as a loose step or a wet floor).
• Trespassers: Property owners generally do not owe a duty of care to trespassers, except they cannot intentionally cause harm (such as setting up traps). However, special rules apply when children are involved, particularly if an attractive nuisance — such as a swimming pool — is present.

Common Causes of Injuries in Homes

Several common hazards can lead to serious injuries when visiting someone or staying in their home.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common home-related injuries. They can result from a variety of unsafe conditions, including:

• Wet or slippery floors due to spills, leaks, or freshly mopped surfaces
• Uneven flooring, loose carpeting, or unsecured rugs
• Poor lighting in hallways, staircases, or entryways
• Cluttered walkways, cords, or loose objects that create tripping hazards
• Icy or snow-covered driveways, sidewalks, or porches during Minnesota’s harsh winters

Falls can cause serious injuries, such as fractures, concussions, or even long-term disabilities, particularly in older adults. If a homeowner fails to address these risks, they could be held liable for any injuries they cause.

Dog Bites

Dogs are our best friends, but that doesn’t mean they can’t do harm. Typical scenarios for dog bites include:

• A guest bitten by a homeowner’s dog, even if the guest was invited inside
• A child attacked while playing in the homeowner’s yard
• A delivery worker or visitor bitten while approaching the front door

Minnesota follows a strict liability rule regarding dog bites, meaning that dog owners are responsible for virtually all injuries caused by their pets. Even if a homeowner tries to claim their dog was provoked, Minnesota’s strict liability law typically favors the injured person as long as they were not trespassing or engaging in unlawful activity at the time of the attack.

Structural Hazards

Structural hazards such as weak balconies, cracked walkways, and collapsing ceilings can all pose significant dangers to guests. Defective stairs are a prevalent cause of injuries, with broken handrails or loose steps leading to falling hazards. Property owners are responsible for maintaining these structures to prevent accidents.

Swimming Pool Accidents

Home swimming pools provide a source of recreation, but they can also be extremely dangerous, particularly for children. In Minnesota, homeowners with pools must take reasonable precautions to prevent accidents. Common risks include:

• Lack of fencing or gates to prevent unsupervised access
• Slippery pool decks, leading to slip and fall injuries
• No lifeguard or adult supervision when children are swimming
• Electrical hazards near the pool area
• Diving injuries due to shallow water or lack of proper signage

Falling Objects

A heavy object falling from a height can cause severe injuries, particularly to children and elderly individuals. Common causes of falling object injuries in homes include:

• Overloaded or unstable shelves that collapse
• Improperly mounted televisions or wall hangings
• Unsecured furniture (such as dressers or bookcases) tipping over
• Ceiling fans or light fixtures falling due to improper installation
  

To reduce these risks, homeowners should ensure that furniture is anchored securely, shelving units are stable, and ceiling fixtures are correctly installed.

Toxic Exposure

Some household hazards are not immediately visible but can still pose serious health risks over time. These include:

• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Faulty furnaces, gas leaks, or blocked vents can cause deadly carbon monoxide buildup.
• Mold exposure: Damp, poorly ventilated areas can develop mold, leading to respiratory issues and allergic reactions.
• Lead paint: Older homes may still contain lead-based paint, which can be dangerous.
• Chemical exposure: Household cleaning supplies, pesticides, and improperly stored chemicals can lead to accidental poisoning.

Homeowners are responsible for identifying and addressing these hazards, particularly if they invite guests into their homes.

Compensation Available for Injured Guests

If you were injured due to a homeowner’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for several damages.

• Medical expenses: This includes coverage for hospital visits, surgeries, prescriptions, rehabilitation, and necessary medical equipment.
• Lost wages: If your injury prevents you from working, you may be compensated for the income lost during your recovery. If the injury affects your ability to work long-term, you may also receive compensation for diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: You may be entitled to damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and a reduced quality of life caused by the injury.
• Disability and long-term care: If your injury leads to a permanent impairment, compensation may cover ongoing medical treatment, in-home care, and necessary home modifications such as wheelchair ramps.
• Property damage: If your personal belongings were damaged during the incident, you may receive reimbursement for repair or replacement costs.

Minnesota follows a comparative fault system, which means that if you are partially responsible for your injury, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, you can still recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault.

If you’ve been hurt on another person’s property, taking the proper steps can make a significant difference in protecting your legal rights:

1. Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
2. Document the scene: Take photos or videos of the hazardous condition that caused your injury. If possible, gather statements from any witnesses.
3. Report the incident: Notify the homeowner as soon as possible. If they have homeowner’s insurance, your claim may be covered.
4. Keep records: Maintain copies of medical bills, doctor’s notes, lost wage documentation, and any other evidence related to your injury.
5. Consult a personal injury attorney: Premises liability cases can be complex, and insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. An experienced attorney can help you determine your best course of action.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

Under Minnesota law, you typically have six years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, the sooner you contact an attorney, the easier it will be for them to gather evidence and build your case.

Get the Compensation You Deserve After a Residential Injury

Any injury can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to pick up the pieces alone. Understanding your rights and taking the proper steps can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve.

At SiebenCarey, we have decades of experience helping injury victims throughout Minnesota hold negligent property owners accountable. If you are hurt on someone else’s property, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you need to move forward.