Georgia residents who enter someone else’s property may be injured in a slip-and-fall accident. Regardless of the cause, there are a few steps that any injury victim will want to take immediately afterwards. The first and most obvious step is to tend to the injuries. Open wounds should be cleaned to reduce the risk for infection. In cases of severe bleeding or injuries made by contact with a dirty object, one should go to the hospital.
Only after victims get medical attention should they determine who was at fault. For example, some places have signs posted that explain that safety is one’s own responsibility. In other cases, it’s clear that the property owner should have done something to prevent the accident, in which case victims may file a claim in the effort to be reimbursed for medical expenses and other losses.
Victims who intend to file a claim should weigh the cost of medical bills and the cost of hiring a lawyer. Of course, victims can represent themselves, but lack of experience could lead to them losing the case and losing money in the process. A lot depends on who the defendant is; if it’s a large corporation, victims will likely be arguing against an experienced team of lawyers.
Slip-and-fall accidents can arise from dangerous conditions like poor lighting, uneven floors and slippery surfaces. If the property owner had a reasonable amount of time to fix these and yet failed to do so, then one can accuse him or her of failing in the duty of care toward lawful entrants. Victims may have a lawyer evaluate their case and determine how much they might be eligible for in damages. If hired, the lawyer may bring in investigators to prove negligence and then negotiate for a settlement.