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Halloween Host Liability: Are You Responsible for Injuries at Your Halloween Party in Texas?

Homeowners may be responsible for injuries on their property.

 

Halloween Host Liability in Texas: What Happens if a Guest Is Injured on Your Property?

Ghosts, zombies, and goblins are scary—but an injury on your property can be far more frightening.

Halloween parties are supposed to be all about spooky fun, candy, and laughter. But between decorations, dim lighting, and crowds of trick-or-treaters, hazards can quickly turn your celebration into a legal nightmare. In Texas, homeowners can be held liable when a visitor is injured due to unsafe conditions on their property.

This blog explains the most common Halloween hazards, how Texas premises liability law works, and what to do if an accident happens on your property—or someone else’s.

Common Halloween Hazards on Private Property

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 3,200 people are treated in emergency rooms each year for Halloween-related injuries. Many of these injuries occur at Halloween parties and events, with common causes including:

  • Slip and fall accidents – 25% of Halloween injuries are from slip-and-fall accidents. Loose decorations or extension cords across walkways can trip guests and trick-or-treaters. Keep cords secured and pathways clear.

  • Poor lighting – Dark porches and unlit sidewalks make it harder for visitors to see steps, decorations, or uneven ground.

  • Wet or uneven surfaces – Spilled drinks, freshly mopped floors, or cracked pavement increase the chance of slips and falls.

  • Unsupervised hazards – Pets, candles, or open porches can pose dangers, especially for young children in costumes.

These dangers are often preventable. When a homeowner knows—or should know—about a hazard and fails to fix it, they can be held legally responsible for resulting injuries.

How Texas Premises Liability Law Works

Under Texas premises liability law, property owners must keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors. If someone is injured because of unsafe conditions, the owner could be liable for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

Liability depends in part on what kind of visitor the injured person is:

  • Invitees – Guests invited to a party or event are owed the highest duty of care. Homeowners must inspect for hazards and fix or warn about dangers.

  • Licensees – Trick-or-treaters fall into this category. Owners don’t have to inspect for hazards but must warn about known dangers, like broken steps or hidden cords.

  • Trespassers – Homeowners generally owe no duty of care to people who enter without permission.

Even temporary decorations can create serious risks, so take the time to double-check safety before guests arrive.

What to Do if an Injury Happens on Halloween

Despite your best efforts, accidents can still occur. Here’s what to do if someone is injured at your home—or if you’re hurt while visiting someone else’s property:

  1. Seek medical attention immediately – Prioritize safety and ensure the injury is properly treated.

  2. Document the scene – Take photos of the hazard, the injury, and surrounding conditions.

  3. Notify your homeowners’ insurance provider – They can help handle potential claims.

  4. Avoid assigning blame or admitting fault – Statements made too soon can complicate liability.

  5. Consult a personal injury attorney – A lawyer can help determine whether negligence was involved and protect your legal rights.

Spooky Halloween Accident? Call Shaw.

Halloween should be about fun, not hospital visits. If you or your loved one has been injured during trick-or-treating or at a Halloween party due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Ambulance Costs

  • ER Treatment

  • Surgeries

  • Medical Bills

  • Pain and Suffering

  • Property Damage

  • Missed Work

  • Wrongful Death

  • And More

We can help you find out for free.

Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 today or use the live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our personal injury attorneys. No fees, no obligations—just expert legal advice when you need it most.

We look forward to serving you.

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