Summer is the season of outdoor festivals, block parties, concerts, fairs, and fireworks. While these events are meant for fun and relaxation, accidents can (and do) happen—often when safety takes a back seat to excitement.
Whether it’s a slip on a wet walkway, a fall from a broken step, or an injury caused by poor crowd control, you may be entitled to compensation if the property owner or event organizer failed to keep the premises safe.
Below, we’ve teamed up with Mickey Keenan P.A. and they have broken down the basics of premises liability and what to do if your summer fun turns into a serious injury.
What Is Premises Liability?
Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility property owners (or those managing a space) have to maintain safe conditions. If they fail to do so—and someone gets hurt as a result—they may be held liable for the damages.
Common examples include:
- Slip and falls due to wet floors or uneven surfaces
- Injuries from inadequate lighting or broken handrails
- Trip hazards from exposed cords, debris, or unstable flooring
- Firework or grill-related accidents at public events
- Poor security that leads to assaults or crowd surges
If the owner or organizer knew or should have known about the danger and didn’t take steps to fix it, they may be legally responsible.
Where Summer Injuries Commonly Happen
Accidents can happen anywhere, but summer events create unique risks due to:
- High foot traffic
- Temporary setups (stages, tents, bleachers)
- Alcohol consumption
- Limited staff and security
Some of the most common venues where premises liability injuries occur include:
- Street festivals and parades
- Theme parks or water parks
- Community fairs and carnivals
- Outdoor concerts or sporting events
- Farmers markets or food truck rallies
What To Do If You’re Injured At A Public Event
If you’re hurt on someone else’s property, take these steps to protect your health and potential claim:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if the injury seems minor, adrenaline can mask serious issues. Plus, getting care documents your condition. - Report The Incident
Notify an event organizer, security staff, or property manager right away. Ask to file an incident report and request a copy if possible. - Take Photos And Videos
Capture:- The hazard that caused your injury
- The location (entrance, signage, crowd conditions)
- Your injuries
- Any warning signs (or lack thereof)
This documentation can help prove negligence later.
- Gather Witness Information
Get names and contact info for anyone who saw what happened. Their statements can support your version of events. - Avoid Signing Anything
Some event organizers may ask you to sign a waiver, release form, or offer “free perks” to avoid liability. Don’t agree to anything without speaking to an attorney first.
Who Could Be Held Liable?
Depending on the situation, more than one party could be responsible:
- The event organizer or promoter
- The venue owner
- A private security company
- A vendor or contractor (for staging, rides, food service, etc.)
An attorney can investigate who had control over the area where you were injured—and whether they acted negligently.
What You May Be Able To Recover
If you were injured due to unsafe conditions, a premises liability lawyer may be able to help you recover damages for:
- Emergency room visits and medical treatment
- Follow-up care or physical therapy
- Lost wages if you missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
What About Waivers Or “At Your Own Risk” Signs?
Many event tickets or entry forms include disclaimers that try to limit liability. While these waivers can sometimes hold up in court, they don’t always protect a venue from claims of negligence—especially if:
- The danger was avoidable
- Safety regulations weren’t followed
- Proper signage or staffing was lacking
Don’t assume you have no case just because you signed a waiver. It’s worth having a legal professional review the facts.
When To Speak With An Attorney
If your injuries are serious, your medical bills are adding up, or you’re unsure who’s responsible, it’s a good idea to contact a personal injury lawyer—sooner rather than later.
Many firms offer free consultations.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve Safe Spaces—Even At Public Events
No one goes to a summer festival or community event expecting to end up in the ER. But when preventable injuries happen, you shouldn’t be left with the financial and physical consequences alone.
Premises liability laws exist to hold negligent property owners and organizers accountable—and help victims get the support they need to heal and move forward.
If you or someone you love was injured at a public event this summer, don’t guess your way through the process. Reach out to a qualified personal injury lawyer for advice.