On behalf of Gammon, McFall & Villarreal posted in slip-and-fall injuries on Friday, January 20, 2017.
Although northwest Georgia isn't known for severe winters, inclement weather can bring on freezing rain, ice storms and even the occasional snowfall. Business owners aren't always prepared to provide for safe footing of their customers. But they may be held liable in the event of a slip-and-fall accident on their property.
While health care professionals prepare for the onslaught of patients during the winter months, legal professionals gear up for the increase in slip-and-fall cases that inevitably occur each year. Georgia is not known for its harsh winters, but brutal ice storms that sweep through the state are not uncommon. As ice coats the trees, roadways, sidewalks and parking lots, hundreds upon hundreds of people fall, and many of those people suffer from injuries that can range from minor to severe.
What should you do in the event of a slip-and-fall injury?
After receiving the medical care, you will want to contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible. Working with an attorney who understands personal injury law in Georgia and specializes in premises owner liability cases is critical to guide your injury claim through the insurance process and legal system, if necessary. The sooner you contact a qualified attorney, the more likely you are to be successful in receiving the compensation you are entitled to for your financial damages.
As you begin the claim process, you should recognize that your compensation can cover more than just the medical expenses associated with the injury. You also may be qualified to receive compensation to cover the financial burden of missing work, as well as for pain and suffering the emotional trauma that often comes with a serious injury. Remember that you and your legal team will have to prove that the slip and fall injury was the result of negligence. This is not always limited to improper ice or water removal. It also can extend to maintenance issues that led to an increased build-up of ice or possibly snow over time, ultimately resulting in a dangerous scenario that ended with your injury.
Time is of the essence after you have experienced a slip and fall accident. Evidence has a way of disappearing or being changed by the negligent property owner. Whether you are shopping at a local business or walking down a public sidewalk, you have the right to expect reasonably safe and secure conditions.
To learn more about personal injury law in Georgia and specifically about winter slip-and-fall injuries, contact our experienced legal team today. We can provide you with the counsel and guidance you need as you seek the damages you deserve.