What is the general principle regarding liability for injuries on land?

The principle regarding liability for injuries on land primarily hinges on the status of the visitor—whether they are an invitee, licensee, or trespasser—and the responsibilities of the land possessor or owner. It is crucial to understand that the land possessor has a duty to maintain the property in a reasonably safe condition and to warn visitors of any known dangers.

When a visitor is classified as an invitee, the land possessor has a heightened duty of care, which includes regularly inspecting the premises and making repairs. For licensees, the possessor must only warn of known dangers, while trespassers are owed less duty, limited to refraining from willfully causing harm.

The concept that only the land possessor is liable aligns with the idea that property owners are responsible for ensuring safety and can be held accountable for injuries that occur on their land due to negligence in fulfilling these duties. Other individuals present on the land may have varying protections, depending on their relation to the possessor and the purpose of their presence, making this principle a pivotal aspect of premises liability law.

Overall, the focus on the land possessor's liability highlights their role in maintaining safety while also establishing a clear framework for understanding how varying visitor statuses influence the legal responsibilities