In the context of California Premises Liability Law, Duty of Care refers to the legal obligation property owners and occupiers have to ensure the safety of visitors on their premises. This responsibility applies to both public and private properties, encompassing residential homes, commercial establishments, and government-owned buildings.
To fulfill this duty, property owners and occupiers must take reasonable steps to maintain a safe environment, addressing any known hazards and mitigating potential risks. Examples of upholding the duty of care include regular inspections, promptly repairing damages, and providing adequate warnings for potential hazards.
If a property owner or occupier breaches this duty of care and an individual suffers injuries on their premises, the owner or occupier may be held liable for damages under California Premises Liability Law. This includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It’s important to note that California follows a “comparative negligence” rule, so if the injured party is found to be partially at fault, their compensation may be reduced accordingly.