Liability Claims – Everything You Need to Know About Third-Party Negligence
Every day, people are injured in situations that could have been prevented, because someone else failed to take proper care. Whether it’s a slippery floor in a supermarket, a cracked sidewalk, poor maintenance in a residential building, or a hazard left unattended by a contractor—these incidents fall under liability law, also known as tort claims.
When another person or organization is legally responsible for the harm you suffered, you may be entitled to financial compensation. In this guide, we’ll explain what a liability claim is, who can sue, what compensation can be received, and why legal representation is critical to success.
What Is a Liability Claim?
A liability claim is a civil lawsuit filed against a person, company, or public entity whose negligence caused injury or damage. These are everyday incidents—not related to traffic accidents or workplace injuries—that happen in public spaces, private properties, or businesses.
Common examples include:
- Slipping on a wet surface in a store or mall
- Falling on broken stairs in an apartment building
- Tripping over a public hazard on the sidewalk
- Being injured by a defective or unsafe product
In all these situations, the responsible party may be obligated to compensate the victim—either personally, or through their insurance company.
Who Is Entitled to File a Claim?
Anyone who was injured due to the negligence of a third party can file a liability claim. This includes:
- Private individuals injured in public or commercial areas
- Tenants or visitors injured in residential buildings
- Consumers harmed by unsafe or defective products
- Pedestrians or bystanders injured due to poor maintenance or hazardous conditions
Importantly, the victim does not need to prove intentional harm—only that there was a duty of care, that the responsible party breached that duty, and that the injury resulted directly from that breach.
What Compensation Does the Victim Receive?
Compensation in liability cases is determined according to several factors:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Loss of income and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs, transportation, and home assistance
The compensation can reach significant amounts—especially in cases of serious or long-term injuries. In most situations, the responsible party is covered by third-party liability insurance, meaning the claim is directed at the insurance company, not the individual personally.
What Is Involved in the Process?
A liability claim generally begins with documenting the injury and the scene—including photos, witness accounts, and medical records. From there, the process includes:
- Filing a formal claim with the insurance company of the responsible party.
- Providing medical and legal evidence that proves the injury and negligence.
- Depending on whether the insurance company accepts responsibility or contests the claim, it will either move on to litigation or negotiation
- Expert opinions – sometimes required from doctors, engineers, or safety inspectors to strengthen the case.
If the insurance company denies liability or offers less than you are entitled to, the case can proceed to court.
Why Should You Contact a Lawyer?
Liability claims can be complicated—especially when it comes to proving negligence and calculating fair compensation. Insurance companies may try to downplay your injury, question your account of the incident, or offer a low settlement far below what you truly deserve.
An experienced personal injury lawyer will:
- Prove the causal link between the negligence and the injury.
- Collect and present evidence effectively.
- Handle all negotiations with the insurance company.
- Accurately assess the value of your claim, including future losses.
- Represent you firmly in court, if necessary.
Without legal guidance, you risk missing important details or accepting far less than your full legal entitlement.
We Are Here to Help
If you were injured due to someone else’s carelessness—you have the right to demand compensation. At Shimoff Azoulay Law Offices, we represent victims in all types of liability claims, from minor injuries in public places to complex negligence cases involving municipalities, contractors, or large businesses.
We handle everything—from evidence collection to negotiations with insurance companies—and we do it with determination, precision, and compassion. Our firm is committed to making sure no detail is overlooked, and no shekel is left on the table.
If you’ve been hurt because someone else failed in their responsibility, don’t wait. Contact us today—and let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.