Premises Liability

International Premises Liability Attorneys

Last updated on December 19, 2025

At Urban Thier & Federer, P.A., our team of dedicated attorneys is capable of helping you if you have been injured in the United States. With offices across the country, we assist clients who have been injured in accidents while traveling or visiting from a foreign country with the assistance of our experienced litigation attorneys. Being injured is an unfortunate but not unlikely possibility when traveling in high-traffic areas such as travel hubs like airports and hotels.

Understanding The Dangers Of Premises Liability

As a general category, premises liability encompasses incidents where a seemingly safe area has been turned into an unsafe area due to the owner’s negligence, which led to you then suffering an injury. Normal locations such as staircases, elevators, escalators, swimming pools or hot tubs are examples of areas that routinely are the focus of premises liability suits. Other areas such as sidewalks can become dangerous with precipitation or uncleared refuse that can pose a danger to people.

The exact legal duty can vary depending on the state, but the general rule throughout the United States is that property owners have a duty to maintain their property in a safe manner and to provide warnings of any dangers that may exist upon them. If you have visited the United States, then you may understand that such dangers can be unavoidable as you travel.

An Experience And Dedicated Team Of Attorneys

Our attorneys have helped many clients who were injured while traveling through the United States and are adept at assisting them even when they have returned to their home state or country. If you have been injured due to a dangerous condition while you were traveling in the United States and suspect that it was due to the negligence of the property owner, then you may have a claim against them, and our team can help you.

What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability is an area of law that holds property owners, landlords, and even business operators legally responsible when unsafe conditions on their property cause harm to visitors. The idea is that anyone who invites people onto their property—whether a hotel, short term rental (such as AirBNB, VRBO and Homeaway), amusement park, casino, restaurant, resort, shopping mall, or private residence—has a duty to ensure the premises are reasonably safe. If they fail to repair hazards, fail to warn visitors of potential dangers, or allow unsafe conditions to exist, they may be held liable for resulting injuries. This protection applies to both U.S. residents and international visitors.

How Do I Know If I Have A Valid Premises Liability Case?

The best way to determine whether you have a case is to consult with an experienced premises liability attorney. Generally, you may have a valid claim if you were injured on another person’s property due to a dangerous condition about which that the owner knew or should have known about. Examples include slippery floors, broken steps, poor lighting, or lack of security in high-crime areas. A lawyer will review the circumstances of your accident, examine available evidence, and determine whether negligence played a sufficient role. At Urban Thier & Federer, we offer free case evaluations to help you understand your options.

What Types Of Accidents Fall Under Premises Liability?

Premises liability covers a wide range of accidents that occur on public or private property. The most common types include slip-and-fall accidents caused by wet floors, icy sidewalks, or uneven surfaces. Trip hazards, such as loose carpeting or poorly maintained stairs, are also frequent. Injuries may also result from defective elevators or escalators, swimming pool accidents, inadequate lighting, or even negligent security that allows assaults to occur. Essentially, any situation where a property owner’s negligence creates unsafe conditions that cause injuries can give rise to a premises liability claim. Unfortunately, these incidents are common in hotels, retail areas and other areas where businesses invite their guests & customers.

If I Was Injured While Traveling In The U.S. But I Live Abroad, Can I Still Bring A Premises Liability Claim?

Yes. Even if you live outside the United States, you can still bring a premises liability claim if you were injured while visiting the United States. Our firm frequently represents international clients who were injured in hotels, business establishments, tourist attractions, or other venues while traveling. Many cases can be pursued without requiring you to return to the U.S., as we can handle much of the legal process on your behalf. We understand the additional challenges international clients face, such as time zones, language barriers, and long distances, and we are experienced in providing the support and representation you need.

Do Property Owners Always Have To Pay For Injuries That Happen On Their Property?

No, not every accident that occurs on someone’s property results in legal liability. To hold a property owner responsible, it must be proven that they acted negligently. Negligence can mean failing to correct a dangerous condition they knew or should have known about, or not providing adequate warnings. For example, if you slipped because of an unmarked wet floor that had been left unattended for hours, that may qualify as negligence. On the other hand, if the danger was unforeseeable and the owner took reasonable precautions, liability may not apply. Each case requires careful legal analysis.

What Should I Do Immediately After Being Injured On Someone Else’s Property?

If you are injured, the most important first step is to seek immediate medical attention to protect your health and document your injuries. You should also report the incident to the property owner, manager, or staff and ask for a copy of the incident report if one is created. If possible, take photographs or videos of the hazardous condition and your injuries. Collect the contact information of witnesses who saw the accident. Keep all receipts, medical records, and documentation related to your treatment. Finally, consult an experienced premises liability attorney quickly, as evidence can disappear or be altered.

How Long Do I Have To File A Premises Liability Claim In The U.S.?

The time limit to file a premises liability claim—called the statute of limitations—varies depending on the state where the injury occurred. In many states, you may have between two and four years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. However, there are important exceptions. Some states shorten the deadline, and claims involving government-owned property or cruise ship accidents may have very strict notice requirements. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to compensation altogether. For international clients, this makes it especially important to contact a U.S. attorney promptly after the accident to preserve your rights.

What Compensation Can I Recover In A Premises Liability Case?

Compensation in a premises liability case depends on the degree of liability and the severity of your injuries and how they impact your life. You may be entitled to recover the cost of all medical treatment, including emergency care, hospital stays, physical therapy, and future medical expenses. If you missed work, you could recover lost wages or loss of earning capacity if your ability to work is permanently affected. You may also be entitled to damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. In catastrophic cases, compensation could also cover long-term care, disability, or accommodations needed for daily living.

What Happens If I Am Partially At Fault For My Injury On Someone Else’s Property?

Even if you believe you were partly responsible for your accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. Many states follow comparative negligence rules, which allow injured individuals to recover damages reduced by their degree or percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% responsible for not paying attention and the property owner was 80% responsible for failing to maintain safe conditions, you could still recover 80% of your damages. However, a few states follow stricter rules, where any fault may bar recovery. Because the law varies, speaking with an attorney is critical.

How Does A Law Firm Help International Clients Who Cannot Return To The U.S. For Their Case?

At Urban Thier & Federer, P.A., we routinely represent international clients who were injured while visiting the U.S. We understand that traveling back for legal proceedings can be expensive and impractical. In many cases, we can manage the process remotely by handling filings, negotiations, and court appearances on your behalf. We keep clients updated regularly through phone calls, email, and video conferencing. When necessary, we coordinate with local medical providers in your home country to document your ongoing injuries. Our international experience ensures that your claim is pursued effectively without requiring frequent travel back to the U.S.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire Your Firm For A Premises Liability Case?

Our firm typically works on a No Win No Fee/contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay any upfront fees for legal services. Instead, our fees are collected as a percentage of the compensation we recover for you, either through settlement or trial. If we do not win your case, you owe us nothing for attorney’s fees. This allows injured individuals, including international clients, to pursue justice without worrying about paying hourly legal bills. We are transparent about our fee structure from the start and will advance any costs, such as court filing fees or expert witness expenses.

Do I need an attorney if the property owner’s insurance offers a settlement?

Yes. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, even when the policyholder is clearly liable. An initial settlement offer may not account for all your medical expenses, lost wages, future rehabilitation costs, or long-term complications from your injury. Settlements may also ignore non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or permanent impairment. An experienced premises liability attorney can carefully evaluate the offer, identify gaps, and negotiate on your behalf. Additionally, an attorney ensures all deadlines are met, evidence is preserved, and your legal rights are protected, preventing you from inadvertently waiving important claims.

What evidence is most important for a premises liability claim?

Collecting and preserving evidence is critical to the success of any premises liability claim. Photographs or videos of the hazard and surrounding area, witness statements, incident reports, and medical records are essential. Receipts for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and related expenses also support your claim. Our attorneys advise clients on what documentation is necessary and often coordinate with property managers, insurers, and medical professionals to secure records promptly. Proper evidence not only strengthens your claim but also helps prevent insurance companies from disputing the facts. For international clients, we provide guidance on gathering evidence abroad and translating documents when needed.

How are damages calculated in a premises liability case?

Damages in a premises liability case go beyond immediate medical bills. Compensation can include past and future medical expenses, lost income, diminished earning capacity, and pain and suffering. Other factors, such as permanent impairment, emotional distress, or loss of enjoyment of life, may also be considered. Each case is unique, and careful documentation is essential. Our attorneys perform a comprehensive assessment of your injuries, financial impact, and personal circumstances to ensure all recoverable damages are accounted for and claimed. By thoroughly evaluating both economic and non-economic damages, we maximize the potential settlement or award to reflect the full extent of your suffering.

How long does a premises liability case take?

Case duration varies depending on complexity, insurance negotiations, and whether litigation is required. Simple claims may settle within months, while more complicated cases involving severe injuries, multiple defendants, or cross-border issues can take well over a year. Our attorneys manage every step of the process, from evidence collection and insurance negotiations to filing legal documents and representing clients in court if necessary. We maintain clear communication and keep clients informed of timelines, potential challenges, and progress. For international clients, we handle cross-border logistics efficiently to minimize delays and ensure claims move forward without unnecessary stress or travel.