Slip and fall accidents can happen unexpectedly, and the injuries they cause can be severe. Whether you slipped on a wet floor in a grocery store or tripped on an uneven sidewalk, you may be entitled to compensation if the property owner’s negligence led to your injury. In Georgia, slip and fall cases fall under premises liability law, which holds property owners responsible for maintaining safe conditions.

What Is a Slip and Fall Accident?

A slip and fall accident occurs when someone loses their footing and falls due to a hazardous condition. These incidents can lead to injuries like broken bones, sprains, and head trauma. In severe cases, victims may face long-term disabilities that impact their daily lives.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents:

1. Wet or Slippery Floors: Spills, leaks, or recently mopped floors can create dangerous conditions. Property owners should promptly address these issues and place warning signs.
2. Uneven Surfaces: Cracked sidewalks, loose tiles, or worn-out carpeting can cause people to trip and fall.
3. Obstructed Walkways: Items left in hallways or aisles, such as boxes or equipment, can become tripping hazards.
4. Poor Lighting: Inadequate lighting in stairwells, parking lots, or hallways can make it difficult to see potential hazards.

Who Is Liable for Slip and Fall Accidents?

In Georgia, property owners are required to keep their premises safe for visitors. If they fail to do so and someone gets injured, they may be held liable under premises liability law. To prove liability, you must show that:

• The property owner had a duty of care to keep the premises safe.
• The owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition.
• The owner failed to fix the hazard or provide adequate warning.
• The hazardous condition directly caused your injury.

An experienced premises liability attorney in Atlanta can help gather the evidence needed to build a strong case, such as witness statements, surveillance footage, and maintenance records.

Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident

1. Report the Incident: Notify the property owner or manager immediately and request a written incident report. This document can be valuable evidence if you decide to file a claim.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may not be apparent right away. A medical professional can document your injuries and provide necessary treatment.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos of the area where the fall occurred, especially any visible hazards like wet spots, broken tiles, or poor lighting.
4. Collect Witness Information: If anyone saw the accident, get their contact information. Witnesses can help corroborate your account of the incident.
5. Consult a Lawyer: Contact a trip and fall lawyer in Savannah to discuss your case. They can evaluate your claim and guide you through the legal process.

What Compensation Can You Receive?

Victims of slip and fall accidents may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Covers costs for doctor visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and any future medical care related to the injury.
• Lost Wages: If your injury prevents you from working, you may be compensated for lost income.
• Pain and Suffering: This covers non-economic damages, such as physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injury affects your ability to engage in activities you once enjoyed, you may receive additional compensation.

Why Choose Appalachian Injury Law?

At Appalachian Injury Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with an injury while trying to navigate the legal process. Our experienced attorneys have handled numerous slip and fall cases throughout Georgia, securing favorable outcomes for our clients.

We offer a free consultation to evaluate your case. Contact us today to get started.