Property owners in Georgia and around the country can face lawsuits when their visitors suffer injuries that could have been prevented. All reasonable steps are expected to be taken to protect visitors, and premises liability actions could be initiated when injuries are caused by spills that are not cleaned up in a timely manner, poorly maintained steps or walkways or inadequate security arrangements. However, there are steps that business owners can take to make this kind of litigation less likely.
Owners should start by prioritizing safety and thinking about the experiences their customers have. When customers navigate corridors or walkways carrying large items that could obscure their vision, extra precautions should be taken and spills should be seen to as quickly as possible. Examining tables and other pieces of furniture regularly for sharp edges or shaky legs is also a prudent step to take and could prevent slip and fall accidents and lawsuits.
Visitors sometimes take legal action against business owners or property managers after being assaulted by criminals or when their vehicles have been vandalized. While premises owners may not be able to prevent all criminal activity, they could make life more difficult for malicious individuals by ensuring that parking areas and stairways are adequately lit, employing security staff in high-crime areas and working with local law enforcement to curtail criminal activity.
Personal injury attorneys with experience in this area may visit properties where their clients have been injured to gather evidence that could be used to advocate on their behalf. Such evidence could include photographs of unrepaired damage or obstructed walkways. Attorneys could also check legal records for previous slip and fall lawsuits filed against the defendant to see if there is a pattern of negligent behavior.