Premises Liability in Arkansas: When Property Owners Are Responsible

Property owners must keep their premises reasonably safe. When they fail and someone is hurt, premises liability law may provide compensation.

Owner Duties by Visitor Status

Arkansas law ties an owner's duty partly to why you were on the property. Invitees (like customers) are owed the highest duty of care; licensees (social guests) somewhat less; trespassers the least, though owners still cannot willfully harm them.

Understanding your status helps frame the claim.

Common Premises Hazards

Wet floors, broken stairs, poor lighting, falling objects, unsafe sidewalks, and inadequate security all give rise to claims when an owner knew or should have known of the danger and failed to address it.

Proving the Claim

Evidence that the owner knew of the hazard — or that it existed long enough they should have — is key. Photos, incident reports, and witnesses help. Comparative fault can reduce recovery if you were partly careless.

This article is general information about Arkansas law, not legal advice for your specific situation. For advice about your claim, request a free case review.

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