Everyone slips and falls, and in most cases, people simply get up and brush themselves off. But that’s not the case for millions of people. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slip and falls account for over one million emergency room visits per year, many of whom are over the age of 75. Slip and fall victims often experience injuries like concussions, fractures, and brain injuries. If you’ve experienced a slip and fall injury and need legal representation, call Steinger, Greene & Feiner. We’re trusted Atlanta slip and fall lawyers consistently winning maximum compensation for our injured clients. Call for a free, confidential consultation today.
Understanding Slip and Fall Accidents
Getting hurt in a slip-and-fall accident can have a lasting effect on your life. Even though many slips and falls result in fairly minor scratches or bruises, more severe injuries like brain damage and broken bones can become a huge financial burden.
Most slip and fall injuries are due to a poorly maintained property. This means that it was someone else’s responsibility to maintain their property and keep it safe for guests. Some of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents we see are from:
- Slippery floors
- Icy sidewalks
- Poor lighting
- Uneven sidewalks
- Holes and cracks in walkways
- Unsafe stairs or escalators
- Spilled food and beverages
- Old asphalt in parking lots
- Boxes falling off shelves
- Other code violations
If your slip was a result of someone else’s negligence, hiring a lawyer helps you achieve the right compensation from the negligent party. At Steinger, Greene & Feiner, we dive into the investigation process of your case, making sure no stone is left unturned.
Once we determine the cause and liability of your case, our team gets to work on winning a settlement that covers your financial losses.
Why You Need an Atlanta Slip and Fall Lawyer
Representing yourself in a legal dispute is tough, but it’s even harder when it’s a slip-and-fall case. A slip and fall on someone else’s property is considered a premises liability claim.
The property owner has a legal duty to ensure a safe environment for all guests. So if you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident due to someone else’s negligence, you likely have grounds for a premises liability claim.
These claims can get complex and nuanced, so enlisting the help of an experienced attorney is smart. Get the compensation you deserve with Steinger, Greene & Feiner and call for a free consultation.
Identifying Liability in Slip and Fall Cases
Liability falls on the property owner if the property owner fails to maintain the premises. Some factors that determine liability in a slip-and-fall accident include:
- Failure to clean up foreign objects on the floor
- Failure to warn about conditions like slippery floors
- Failure to repair issues and defects on the property
- Failure to remove ice or snow
In other words, if a property owner fails to keep their property safe, they can be held liable. This means they are responsible for covering the damages accrued by the slip and fall injury victim.
Common Injuries from Slip and Fall Accidents
As mentioned, most slip and fall injuries only result in minor injuries. But in other cases, slip and fall injuries can cause severe, catastrophic, or fatal injuries. The type of injuries we see at Steinger, Greene & Feiner include:
- Broken bones
- Bruises and bumps
- Sprained wrists and ankles
- Concussions
- Knee damage
- Permanent disabilities
If you’ve fallen and injured yourself, be sure to seek medical help right away. Symptoms of a concussion may show up right away, but they also may not show up until a few days after the fall. Untreated concussions are extremely dangerous and can be fatal, so ensure you get medical care if you’ve hit your head.
Legal Process and What To Expect
Navigating the legal process can be daunting, but with the right legal team, you can approach it with confidence. In Georgia, the statute of limitations is typically two years after a slip and fall accident—but sometimes, the statute of limitations can be shorter.
If you’re filing a lawsuit against a government entity, the statute of limitations is less than normal. All in all, it pays to start your claim early. A slip-and-fall lawyer will keep your case on track to make sure you don’t lose out on compensation.
Before you seek legal help from an experienced lawyer, you should:
1. Take Photos
Pull out your smartphone and snap photos of the scene. This includes where you slipped, what you slipped on, and photos of any visible injuries. Photos can and will help build your case when you reach out to a lawyer.
2. Report the Fall
Report your slip and fall to a manager. You should also notify law enforcement of your slip and fall injury. The police will create a report that will only strengthen your slip and fall case.
3. Gather Witness Information
Collect the names and numbers of any witnesses who saw the fall happen. These witness statements can be used to build your case.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Finally, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Minor injuries may not be as minor as you think, so make sure you’re heading to a hospital to get checked out.
Compensation in Slip and Fall Cases
Economic and non-economic damages are usually collected for compensation in slip and fall cases.
Economic Damages
Medical Expenses
This includes costs related to emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any other medical treatments required due to the injuries sustained in the slip and fall accident.
Lost Wages
Slip and fall victims may be compensated for lost income due to missed days at work. This includes both current lost wages and potential future earnings if the injuries lead to long-term impairment or disability.
Transportation Modifications
Compensation may cover vehicle modifications if long-term disability or impairment is sustained. This includes modifications like wheelchair ramps, adaptive controls, and hand controls for driving.
Non-Economic Damages
Pain and Suffering
Sometimes injuries sustained in a slip and fall accident show up in different ways. Victims may be compensated for physical pain, emotional trauma, and PTSD.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Slip and fall victims may collect compensation if they no longer engage in activities or hobbies that were once previously enjoyed.
Loss of Consortium
In cases where the injuries affect the victim’s ability to maintain normal relationships or companionship, compensation may be awarded for the loss of consortium.
Steinger, Greene & Feiner is proud to have a proven track record of satisfied clients and successful settlements.
Client Success Stories
“Right from the beginning of contacting Steinger, Greene & Feiner every step of the legal process was and is swift, accurate, and concise. No time was or has been wasted as they have commenced steadily through the process of gathering information and making contact with me regarding all aspects of my case.” — Steve Gonzalez
“I would highly recommend Steinger, Greene & Feiner without a doubt. Great service. You’re not just a case number, but a person to them!” — Andrea Glanville
“When I really needed them there were no questions asked besides my needs. No talk of money, and friendly and polite service. Something the world is lacking these days they still have. Call them, they’re on point and have your best interest on their minds. Five stars is what I give them.” — Ronald Sapp
Choosing the Right Atlanta Slip and Fall Lawyer
When faced with a slip-and-fall case, selecting the right attorney can impact your outcome. Look for a lawyer with a record of successful slip-and-fall cases. The proof is in the reviews, so research the lawyer you’re considering and take a look at what past clients have to say. Positive, five-star experiences do make a difference.
Since 1997, Steinger, Greene & Feiner has been Atlanta’s premier firm for slip and fall incidents. Our team is dedicated to representing and fighting for victims’ rights, helping people get their lives back on track after such traumatic events.
Our attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay us unless we win your case. Feel confident choosing Steinger, Greene & Feiner, and call us for a free consultation today.
FAQs on Slip and Fall Accidents
Why do I need a specialized slip and fall attorney?
Getting professional representation from a reputable attorney pays off. Specialized attorneys like the ones at Steinger, Greene & Feiner have the expertise to handle complex premises liability cases and maximize your chances of achieving fair compensation.
How do you establish fault in slip and fall cases?
At its core, fault in slip and fall cases is established by demonstrating that the property owner failed to maintain safe conditions. To do this, we investigate the scene of the fall, evaluate documentation such as photos and surveillance footage, and conduct interviews with any witnesses.
What does the initial consultation entail?
During your initial consultation, you’ll discuss the details of your case, ask questions, and determine whether the attorney is the right fit for you. This consultation is 100% free and confidential.
Can I handle a slip-and-fall case on my own?
While it’s possible to handle a slip-and-fall case on your own, it’s highly inadvisable. Hiring an experienced slip-and-fall attorney will improve your chances of maximum compensation and a fair outcome.
What types of damages can I recover in a slip and fall case?
Compensation in slip and fall cases may include economic and non-economic damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.
Consult With an Expert Slip and Fall Lawyer in Atlanta
If you or a loved one experienced a slip and fall injury, turn to the lawyers at Steinger, Greene & Feiner. With over two billion dollars in settlements recovered our team is ready to take on your case and represent you for your specific case.
The statute of limitations for slip and fall cases in Georgia is two years from the date of the accident, so don’t wait to call us. The sooner you call, the sooner we help you get your life back on track. Get started with a free consultation with a trusted slip and fall lawyer in Atlanta.