If you or someone close to you suffered a severe injury in a gym accident because of a dangerous environment, you could have cause for a premises liability lawsuit. Winning an award for damages requires knowing your rights and responsibilities and building a solid claim that establishes the gym owner or manager’s liability.
A Houston gym injury lawyer could help guide you through the process and fight for a fair settlement. Call today to schedule an appointment with one of your diligent premises liability lawyers so we can get started on your case.
Common Accidents at Fitness Facilities and Gyms
Common accidents at fitness centers that lead to injury claims include the following:
- Severe injuries from broken gym equipment, such as loose cables and frayed cords
- Crushing injuries or traumatic amputations resulting from fingers or other body parts getting caught in the equipment
- Injuries from slipping and falling due to slick walkways, slippery floor mats, uneven flooring, and other hazardous conditions
- Severe head and brain injuries caused by falling objects
- Fall injuries from malfunctioning treadmills or other equipment
- Injuries arising from improper training or lifting techniques learned from unqualified instructors
- Injuries resulting from improper equipment installation
- Injuries arising from dangerous and defective gym equipment
Whether accidents and injuries occur because of negligent gym maintenance, faulty equipment, or the guidance of an inexperienced personal trainer, you may be eligible for compensation. A Houston gym injury attorney could review your case to determine whether there is cause to move forward with legal action.
Premises Liability Claims for Gym Accident Injuries
All commercial properties and businesses, including gyms and fitness facilities, are legally responsible for ensuring their property is safe for visitors and guests who enter lawfully. When the person responsible for maintaining the premises is negligent, and you suffer harm due to their carelessness, you may have valid cause for a lawsuit. An award for damages could cover your:
- Initial medical expenses
- Ongoing treatments
- Loss of income or benefits
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
Consulting a skilled premises liability lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Gym Waivers and Releases
Many fitness centers and gyms require members and guests to sign a waiver, releasing the business from liability should someone sustain an injury while visiting the center. However, a release cannot legally absolve the business owners from all responsibility when accidents occur because of negligence.
Premises Defect Lawsuits
Establishing liability and winning an award for damages in a premises liability case against a gym requires proving the presence of the following components:
- The gym equipment or condition was unreasonably dangerous
- The gym owner, operator, or manager was aware or should have been aware of the risk
- The defendant failed to take adequate steps to fix the hazard or warn those entering the gym
- The defendant’s failure to fix the issue caused the plaintiff harm
- The plaintiff suffered damages as a result of the negligence
Filing your claim within the allowable time is also crucial for recovering damages.
Deadline for Commencing Legal Action
Filing a claim within the tort statute of limitations guidelines is essential for successfully obtaining a settlement. Under the rules of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, you must file the suit within two years of the gym accident that led to your injury. A knowledgeable gym injury lawyer in Houston could handle the legal work and court filings to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Speak With an Experienced Houston Gym Injury Attorney Today
Most of the time, gyms and fitness centers provide a safe environment for you to work out. Unfortunately, when negligence is involved, gym members and guests can suffer harm.
As with other types of businesses, gym owners and managers are legally responsible for maintaining their premises, fixing hazards, and warning you about the potential danger until the repair is complete. When their carelessness causes members or guests harm, the court will hold them responsible. Contact a qualified Houston gym injury lawyer to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.
Below are just some of the more common types of cases that Benjamin Roberts represents personal injury clients.
For a full list of the cases we handle, please see the Practice Areas link at the top of the page.