Slip-and-fall incidents are behind many personal injury lawsuits in Georgia. A variety of different circumstances may contribute to a slip and fall occurring at a commercial or residential property. Taking precautions may help protect property owners from being legally responsible for any accidents that occur.
Ice and snow can easily cause people to slip on frozen sidewalks and parking lots. Though property owners aren’t typically responsible for the ice and snow that accumulates due to winter weather conditions, they can be held liable if conditions on their property led to the injury occurring. Property owners should ensure that drains and gutters are free of clutter and clogs. Furthermore, it’s important that sidewalks and parking lots are in good condition. Owners who choose to remove ice and snow from their premises need to do so in a safe manner.
Inadequate lighting also poses a risk. If lights in a parking lot or apartment complex are out, customers may not see the steps or landscaping that could be in their way. This can even cause someone with good eyesight to trip and fall. Make sure that all outdoor lights are in good repair and that steps and stairs are well lit.
Premises liability is a legal term that applies to personal injury cases. A property owner may be considered liable if an individual gets injured while on their premises. However, the property must have unsafe or defective conditions for the owner to be responsible for injuries if a civil suit is filed. Someone who has been hurt due to questionable conditions at another person’s property may want to speak with a lawyer. An attorney could determine if a premises liability claim holds merit.