Injured at a Friend's or Family Member’s House? Here’s What to Do Next

Getting injured is never easy, especially when it happens in the home of a friend, family member, or someone you know. You might feel conflicted about what to do next, unsure of your rights, or even hesitant to take legal action for fear of damaging relationships. However, medical bills, lost income, and long-term recovery don’t pause for personal feelings. That’s why understanding your options is critical. At Arshakyan Law Firm, our experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorneys are here to help you navigate this difficult situation with clarity and compassion.

Your Rights After Being Injured in Someone Else’s Home

Whether you were visiting a friend, attending a family gathering, or simply stopping by a neighbor’s house, you have legal rights if you’re injured due to unsafe conditions. California law, specifically under premises liability statutes, holds property owners accountable for maintaining a reasonably safe environment for guests and visitors.

Injuries that occur on private property can lead to a personal injury claim, especially if the homeowner or occupier failed to fix a known hazard or provide adequate warnings.

Common Accidents That Lead to Injuries in the Home

While homes may seem like safe places, many hazards can result in significant injuries.

Some of the most common include:

• Slip and fall accidents from wet floors, loose carpets, or icy sidewalks
• Trip and fall incidents due to uneven steps, exposed cords, or cluttered hallways
• Dog bites and pet-related injuries
• Burns from kitchen accidents, fires, or faulty electrical wiring
• Swimming pool injuries
• Falls from balconies, stairs, or ladders
• Injuries caused by broken furniture or defective appliances

These accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from sprains and fractures to traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage.

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do If You’re Injured in Someone Else’s Home

Knowing what to do immediately after an injury can make a major difference in protecting your health and your rights.

1. Seek Medical Attention

Your health should always come first. If your injuries are serious, call 911 or ask someone to assist you in getting medical care. Even if you think the injury is minor, it’s still important to see a doctor. Medical documentation will be essential later on.

2. Report the Incident to the Homeowner

Let the homeowner or occupier know that you were injured. Stay calm and factual. Avoid placing blame or accepting fault.

3. Document Everything

Take pictures of the area where the injury occurred, including any hazardous conditions. Photograph your injuries if possible. If there were any witnesses, get their names and contact information.

4. Avoid Discussing Fault

Don’t make any statements admitting fault, and avoid arguing with the property owner. Anything you say could be used against you in a legal claim.

5. Check for Insurance Coverage

Most homeowners have liability insurance that may cover medical expenses and damages for guests injured on their property. However, insurance companies may still attempt to minimize or deny your claim.

6. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

Before dealing with any insurance representatives, speak with an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer at Arshakyan Law Firm. We can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and assist you in seeking fair compensation.

What If You Don’t Want to Sue a Friend or Family Member?

This is one of the most common concerns—and it’s completely understandable. The truth is that most personal injury claims don’t go after a person’s assets. Instead, they are filed against their homeowner’s insurance policy.

Filing a claim helps you access compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Ongoing treatment or rehabilitation
• Emotional distress

In most cases, your friend or family member won’t have to pay anything out of pocket. Their insurer handles the claim.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, it’s important to act quickly. Evidence can disappear, and memories fade. The sooner you speak with a Southern California personal injury attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case.

Do You Have a Case?

To have a valid personal injury case, you’ll need to show:

1. The homeowner owed you a duty of care (which they almost always do for guests)
2. They breached that duty by failing to address or warn you about a dangerous condition
3. That breach directly caused your injury
4. You suffered damages (medical bills, lost income, pain, etc.)

Arshakyan Law Firm can help you gather evidence, work with medical experts, and negotiate with insurance companies to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Arshakyan Law Firm?

At Arshakyan Law Firm, we bring over 30 years of combined experience handling personal injury cases across Los Angeles and Southern California. We understand the delicate nature of these claims and provide compassionate, strategic representation to help you get the results you need, without compromising your relationships.

Our personal injury lawyers have helped countless clients in situations just like yours. We’ll fight for your rights while making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.