Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its charming historic streets, family-friendly attractions, and warm coastal lifestyle. However, ensuring the safety of children in public and private spaces is a crucial responsibility for property owners. When negligence leads to a child’s injury, premises liability laws come into play, holding property owners accountable.

Understanding Premises Liability and Child Injuries

Premises liability refers to a property owner’s legal responsibility to maintain a safe environment for visitors. This is especially important when it comes to children, who may not fully understand risks in their surroundings. Under South Carolina law, property owners must take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable dangers that could cause harm to minors.

Common hazards that lead to child injuries in Charleston include:

• Swimming Pools: Unsecured pools or a lack of proper fencing can lead to drowning accidents.
• Playgrounds: Poorly maintained playgrounds in schools, parks, and residential communities can cause falls and serious injuries.
• Slip and Falls: Wet floors, uneven sidewalks, and poor lighting in stores or restaurants pose risks for young children.
• Dog Bites: Pet owners are responsible for ensuring their animals do not pose a danger to children.
• Toxic Substances: Unsecured cleaning products, pesticides, and lead-based paint can pose significant poisoning risks.

The Attractive Nuisance Doctrine in South Carolina

A key legal concept in child injury cases is the attractive nuisance doctrine. Under this rule, property owners may be liable if they fail to secure hazards that are likely to attract children. For example, if a homeowner leaves an old refrigerator, construction equipment, or an unfenced pool on their property, they could be held responsible if a child gets hurt while exploring the area.

Steps to Take if Your Child Is Injured on Someone Else’s Property

If your child suffers an injury due to unsafe conditions on another person’s property, taking the right steps can help protect their rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention – Your child’s health and safety are the top priority. Immediate medical care ensures proper treatment and documentation of the injury.
2. Report the Incident – Notify the property owner or business manager about the accident and request a written report.
3. Document Everything – Take photos of the hazardous condition and your child’s injuries, and gather witness statements if possible.
4. Consult a Premises Liability Attorney – An experienced lawyer can assess your case, help determine liability, and fight for the compensation your family deserves.

Brewer Law Firm: Fighting for Injured Children in Charleston

If your child has been injured due to a property owner’s negligence, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. At Brewer Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting Charleston families and ensuring responsible parties are held accountable. Our team has extensive experience in premises liability cases and will fight to secure compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Contact Brewer Law Firm today. Let us help you seek justice and ensure a safer community for our children.

Call us now or visit our website to schedule your consultation.

Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult with our attorneys to discuss your specific situation.