Children are naturally curious and often unaware of potential hazards, making them more vulnerable to accidents—especially when visiting someone else’s home. If a child is injured on another person’s property, parents may have legal options under premises liability law.
Legal Responsibility for Child Safety
In California, property owners are required to maintain reasonably safe conditions. When children are involved, this duty often extends further due to a legal concept called “attractive nuisance.” This refers to objects or areas that may draw a child in—like a swimming pool, trampoline, or construction zone—posing a serious risk if not properly secured.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that injuries such as falls, drowning, and burns are among the leading causes of child emergency visits in the United States. Many of these incidents happen in homes or private properties.
Common Hazards on Residential Properties
Several conditions can pose serious risks to children and may justify a legal claim if a property owner fails to correct or secure them:
- Pools without fences or alarms
- Unstable balconies, porches, or staircases
- Loose rugs, open tool sheds, or unsecured furniture
- Toxic materials or dangerous pets
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) explains that more than 2 million children are injured annually due to preventable hazards. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also emphasizes that many of these injuries can be reduced with proper safety planning.
What Parents Can Do After an Injury
If your child is harmed on another person’s property:
- Seek medical treatment immediately
- Document the injury and environment with photos
- Save all medical bills and therapy records
- Consult an attorney experienced in child injury claims
