If your child is hurt on someone else’s property here in California, it’s completely understandable to go looking for answers. There are a lot of legal terms that start popping up, and one you may come across is an “attractive nuisance.” It’s a formal-sounding phrase, but the idea behind it is simple. If you ever want help sorting through what it means for your situation, Maison Law’s team of California personal injury lawyers can walk you through your options and what comes next.
What Is an “Attractive Nuisance” in California?
An “attractive nuisance” is:
- Something dangerous on a property that tends to draw kids in.
And because children don’t always recognize danger—even when it seems obvious to adults—California law expects property owners to take reasonable steps to keep those types of things secure. Unlike with adults, children who wander onto a property aren’t treated the same under the law. Even if a child technically trespasses, a property owner may still be responsible if:
- They knew (or should’ve known) kids might be around
- The hazard is man-made, not a natural feature like a hill or pond
- The danger wouldn’t be obvious to a child
- The owner could have made it safer without much trouble
In real life, this usually involves things like:
- Unfenced or unsecured swimming pools
- Trampolines or playground equipment left accessible
- Construction sites, tools, or machinery left out
- Old appliances, cars, or other items kids might climb on
The idea is straightforward: kids are curious, and property owners should take basic steps to keep them from getting seriously hurt by things that could have been secured.
Should You Talk to a Lawyer If Your Child Was Hurt?
If your child was injured because something dangerous on someone else’s property caught their attention, you might be wondering whether you need a lawyer. While not every situation requires one, these cases get complicated fast. They involve questions about responsibility, foreseeability, and what the property owner should have done.
Meanwhile, you’re dealing with doctor visits, follow-ups, emotional fallout, and maybe missed school. And while all that is happening, the insurance company might try to wrap things up quickly. That could leave you and your family hurting in the long term, and that’s where our team can step in and help by:
- Walking you through your options in plain, easy-to-understand language
- Looking into what happened and whether the property should’ve been secured
- Dealing with the insurance company so you don’t have to
- Making sure your child’s long-term needs are accounted for
- Handling a claim or lawsuit if that’s what the situation calls for
You shouldn’t have to shoulder this alone. Getting answers and protecting your child’s future doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Reach out to our team for a free consultation and let us help you and your family move forward.
