Sadly, many people drown each year in private swimming pools, public swimming pools, lakes, rivers, and anywhere there is a body of water. Property owners have a duty to ensure that they are aware of the people who may use their swimming pools or waterways. They must take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of users and must warn users of known dangers. The duty of care may even apply to trespassers under some circumstances. How [...]

There are several key parts to any premises liability case. You must prove the owner of the property had a duty to protect you, and failed to make their property safe. Generally, owners have a duty of care to customers, visitors, and people who have permission on the property. In most cases, there is no duty owed to a trespasser. You also need to show that the unsafe condition caused your injury and not another issue. [...]

Are waivers of liability effective in Tennessee? Many times when involved in any sort of recreational activity, be it going to the trampoline park or going swimming, you'll be faced with a decision to sign a waiver of liability. Many people will sign those documents without much thought. However, you have to be aware of what you're giving up. Many times you're giving up the right to sue that particular company relative to any act of [...]

Generally, Knoxville homeowners who have a dog are liable if the animal bites or attacks someone, but the laws say you have to keep your pets “under reasonable control.” We don’t have a one-bite rule here, so the dog doesn’t have to haver a record of bad behavior. Now, if someone breaks onto your property and the dog bites him, it could be different story – but by and large, you’re responsible for your dog’s actions. [...]