What is premises liability in Georgia?

Premises liability refers to the doctrine that declares the owner of a property responsible for any injuries that occur because of their negligence. Owners have to make a reasonable effort to keep their property safe, otherwise they can be at fault. 

Background media

Elements of a premises liability claim in Peachtree Corners, GA

To have a chance at success, a premises liability claim in Georgia requires that you prove four crucial elements. First, you must show that a duty of care existed, meaning the owner or landlord had a responsibility to keep you safe. Then, you have to prove they breached that duty of care and that their negligence led to the injuries you suffered. It’s not enough to say that a hazard, like a wet floor, caused the injuries, but that negligent actions like not putting a warning sign, led to them. The final thing you have to prove is that you can be compensated for your losses. If you didn’t suffer any injuries, then you can’t file a claim. 

premises liability attorney media

Common causes of premises liability claims in Peachtree Corners, GA

Slip and fall accidents tend to be the most common causes of premises liability claims. Georgia divides these cases into two categories: those that occur because of a static defect, like broken pavement, and those that involve a foreign substance, like water. Negligent security can also lead to these claims. It involves the owner of the property not offering adequate security, which leads to an assault or any other kind of injury. Dog bites are yet another type of premises liability common in Georgia. 

Georgia’s modified comparative negligence laws and premises liability claims

One of the reasons why premises liability claims are so complex in Georgia is the state’s modified comparative negligence laws. These laws bring into play any actions you may have taken that contributed to the accident and injuries you suffered. If your percentage of fault is 50% or higher, you can’t claim any form of compensation. This puts you in a dangerous spot. If you don’t have a lawyer to help you, the other party could argue that you are most at fault, eliminating your chance to get help. Whether you have an accident at a private or commercial location, you need to contact a premises liability lawyer in Peachtree Corners, GA, to avoid getting blamed for an accident in which you were a victim. 

Banner media

Compensation available in a premises liability claim

You can claim economic damages, which involve quantifiable losses you’ve suffered. Medical expenses are the most common, with everything from hospital care to medication costs being covered. Lost wages and property damage are also covered.

Non-economic damages you can also claim are those that are harder to put a price on because they’re subjective. Pain and suffering, as well as loss of enjoyment of life and loss of companionship all fit in this category. 

Punitive damages are sometimes awarded if the accident involved particularly egregious actions on the other party’s side. These damages are meant to punish the person, not compensate you, so the majority of the winnings don’t go to the injured party.

How a premises liability attorney in Peachtree Corners, GA can help

Choosing the experienced premises liability lawyers at Pendergrass Law can help you with these kinds of claims. They’re never straightforward, even if they appear to be. You need a lawyer to help you understand the claim and the compensation you could ask for. At Pendergrass Law, we can gather all of the necessary evidence to prove that you’re not at fault. We have contacts with expert witnesses who can recreate the accident and know exactly what evidence types work best. Furthermore, we help with the negotiation process. Insurance companies will do their best to minimize your claim, but we’ll help you get fair compensation. If necessary, our litigation experience allows us to take your case to court. 

Banner media

Pendergrass Law: Offering reliable assistance in premises liability claims

If you’ve suffered an injury at a commercial or private property that resulted from the owner’s negligence, reach out to us. Our team is here to assess your claim to see if you can get the compensation you need. When you turn to us, you have the chance to get not only legal help but also support. We treat each client like we’d want our family to be treated, so you can expect compassion and respect from the moment you step through our doors. Don’t wait to get the compensation you deserve after an accident that wasn’t your fault. Contact The Pendergrass Law Firm now. 

Background media
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 404 882-7784.