Most homeowners understanding that if someone comes onto their property as a guest and they are injured because of a defect in your home or the land that you can be held civilly liable for the guests' injuries. To be liable you would have to be found to be negligent by a judge or jury and the standard for negligent acts differ from state to state according to specific laws. However, generally the law requires that people who are invited to your home be treated with reasonable care and that you maintain your property and warn guests of any hazards. You would have a responsibility to be aware of hazards on your property. If you have pets, which harm a person on your property, you may have liability to that person as a result of your pet's acts.
If someone is injured while on your property or at your home, you should contact medical authorities to get assistance for the injured guests. You should also contact your homeowners insurance company to report the incident by phone and follow up with a written report.
When someone is injured on your property, it is also a good idea for you to check with an attorney regarding any liability you might have. If you are sued and have homeowners insurance, your insurance company will provide you with a defense attorney to defend you against those claims. However, consulting with a private attorney is a good idea because in many instances the insurance company and their lawyer may have a conflict of interest, or different goals in resolving a case than the homeowner. Homeowners insurance will not cover any acts that are alleged to be intentional, and it will not cover claims for punitive damages.
