Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, often when you least expect them. Whether it’s a wet grocery store aisle, a poorly lit stairwell, or a cracked sidewalk, these incidents can lead to serious injuries and long-term consequences. At Hanks, Ballard & Barth, they regularly represent clients across Georgia who have suffered due to unsafe property conditions. Understanding the most common causes of slip and fall accidents is the first step toward prevention and legal recovery. If you or a loved one has been injured, knowing your rights under Georgia law can make all the difference.
Why Slip and Fall Cases Deserve Legal Attention
The Seriousness of Seemingly Minor Accidents
Slip and fall injuries are among the most common types of personal injury claims in Georgia, yet they are often underestimated. At Hanks, Ballard & Barth, they know that even a short fall can lead to significant injuries and long-term effects. Injuries may range from bruises and sprains to fractures, spinal damage, or head trauma. In many cases, victims face mounting medical bills, time away from work, and ongoing pain.
Premises Liability and the Role of Property Owners
Georgia law holds property owners responsible for maintaining reasonably safe conditions for visitors. Failure to do so can make them legally liable for resulting injuries. This legal concept, known as premises liability, applies to businesses, homeowners, landlords, and government entities. When hazardous conditions are present and not addressed promptly, those responsible for the property may be held accountable.
Leading Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Wet or Slippery Surfaces
Spills in grocery stores, recently mopped floors without warning signs, and accumulated rainwater are frequent causes of falls in both commercial and residential properties. Property owners and managers are required to take prompt action to clean up or warn about slick surfaces. If they fail to do so and someone is injured as a result, they may be liable.
Poor Lighting and Visibility
Inadequate lighting in stairwells, hallways, and parking lots makes it difficult to identify hazards, increasing the risk of tripping or slipping. Proper lighting is a basic safety measure, and when it is lacking, it creates a dangerous environment for visitors, particularly in high-traffic areas.
Uneven Walkways or Damaged Flooring
Broken pavement, loose floorboards, torn carpeting, and other structural defects are common culprits in slip and fall cases they handle. These conditions are especially dangerous when they are not clearly marked or repaired promptly. Routine maintenance is essential to avoid these hazards.
Weather-Related Hazards
Snow, ice, and wet leaves may contribute to accidents. While Georgia doesn’t often see harsh winters, property owners are still expected to address these conditions when they occur. Failing to shovel, salt, or otherwise manage slippery outdoor surfaces can lead to injury and liability.
Obstructions and Clutter
Boxes, cords, and other items blocking walkways can be especially hazardous in workplaces or stores and are frequently cited in legal claims. Businesses and employers must keep pathways clear to prevent avoidable accidents and injuries.
How Georgia Law Addresses Slip and Fall Cases
Legal Responsibility and Negligence
To hold a property owner liable, the attorneys must prove they knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to address it promptly. This involves showing that the dangerous condition existed long enough that a reasonable person would have discovered and corrected it. It also involves proving that the condition directly caused the injury.
Comparative Negligence and Shared Fault
If the injured person is found to have contributed to the accident, for example, by ignoring posted signs, their compensation may be reduced under Georgia’s comparative negligence law. Georgia follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means a person can recover damages as long as they are less than 50 percent at fault. If they are deemed 50 percent or more responsible, they cannot recover compensation.
Building a Strong Slip and Fall Claim
Gathering Key Evidence
Photographs of the hazard, incident reports, witness statements, and medical records all strengthen your claim. The attorneys at Hanks, Ballard & Barth help ensure this information is preserved and properly presented. Quick action after the fall is essential, as evidence may be cleaned up or lost over time.
Establishing the Property Owner’s Duty
Our attorneys investigate the scene, request maintenance records, and identify whether the property owner met their duty of care. They analyze whether they had proper safety protocols in place and whether those protocols were followed. If negligence is found, they build a compelling case to demonstrate liability.
How Hanks, Ballard & Barth Assist Slip and Fall Victims
Comprehensive Legal Support
From identifying the cause of the fall to negotiating with insurance companies or taking the case to trial, they handle every step of the legal process. At Hanks, Ballard & Barth, they provide strategic legal counsel tailored to each client’s circumstances. They understand how to navigate Georgia’s personal injury laws and are committed to delivering results.
Advocating for Maximum Compensation
They seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impacts, helping their clients move forward after an unexpected injury. Whether your injuries are minor or severe, they work to ensure you are not left bearing the financial burden of someone else’s negligence.
Hanks, Ballard & Barth Pursue Justice in Slip and Fall Cases
Slip and fall injuries can disrupt your health, finances, and quality of life. At Hanks, Ballard & Barth, they’re committed to holding negligent property owners accountable and recovering the compensation you deserve. Their experienced attorneys are available to guide you through the legal process and protect your rights every step of the way.
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact Hanks, Ballard & Barth on their website or call 770-267-8988 today to schedule a free consultation. Let them put their legal experience to work to help you get the compensation you deserve.
