Legal Question in Personal Injury in California
Is the Homeowner Liable
I was visiting a friend at her home where she rents. During this visit her cousin attacked and stabbed me with a knife. Her boyfriend then drove me to the hospital where they stabalized me and transported me to a trauma center. I am now home and I am wondering if the homeowner she rents from is liable since this did happen on her property?
The woman who stabbed me confessed to stabbing me and is currently in custody. Although i did not give the police any information (due to fear of reprocussions)can i still sue the homeowner?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Is the Homeowner Liable
I don't think you have a viable cause of action against the property owner, unless there were prior incidents that he/she was aware of and took no corrective measures. Even then, it will be an uphill battle.
You might have a case against the renter and definitely have a case against the person who stabbed you. I think you should spend some money and do asset check on the person who stabbed you. Lastly, you may apply to State of California Victim Compensation Fund for assistance. You can get that information from your local police department or DA's office.
Good luck.
Re: Is the Homeowner Liable
I am very sorry to read about your stabbing injury and I hope that you are okay.
In regards to suing the property owner for your injuries, based upon the facts that you provided, I think that you may have a weak argument or two, but more importantly, I do not believe that it is morally right to sue a property owner over what the cosine of the tenant did to you. However, if the tenant has rental insurance, that may be a better choice.
Good luck,
David B. Lupoff, Esq.
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
