By now, you know what constitutes an “attractive nuisance,” and your next step should be to protect yourself from litigation. Below are some examples and tips you can use to make sure that you don’t become involved in a personal injury suit.
1. Pools and other outdoor toys: A swimming pool is one of the most attractive nuisances in existence. If you have a pool, a fence should surround it, which is the law in most states. Fences tell passersby to “keep out” unless they are under your supervision. If you have a swing set, trampoline, or other outdoor equipment, it may be wise to invest in a fence for your yard.
2. Discarded appliances: If you are discarding a washing machine or refrigerator, dismantle it and/or remove the doors before placing it curbside. A small child could see that old refrigerator as a good hiding place, and by removing the door, you’re protecting the neighborhood kids and yourself.
3. Construction equipment and power tools: If you’re working outdoors with your power tools, unplug them or shut off the power before going indoors. Those using heavy equipment such as tractors and excavators should leave machines turned off with keys removed.
4. Holes and other hazards: Keep trenches, ditches, sinkholes, and wells covered to prevent falling injuries. If your property contains an old well or mine, take time to place a cement cap over the entrance.
The above is a partial list of outdoor attractive nuisances, and your property may have objects not listed here. Any outdoor feature can be an attractive nuisance, no matter its size. To protect others and yourself, you should consider the potential dangers posed by outdoor objects. Remember when you were young–would you have played in a ditch or in an old refrigerator? To prevent tragedy, take the steps listed above.
A personal injury lawyer in Green Bay, WI will tell you that you aren’t legally obligated to make your yard safe for children and others. After all, it is your yard, and you aren’t responsible for the actions of someone else’s child. However, children are curious, and can disregard words such as “danger,” “private property,” and “no trespassing”. It’s your moral responsibility to be on the lookout for potential dangers, and doing so can protect your family’s finances and its peace of mind.
Visit Brabazon Law Office, LLC for more details.
