Decatur Premises Liability Lawyers
If you have been injured on someone else’s property, you may have a premises liability case. Premises liability refers to a legal claim that involves injuries due to an unsafe condition on another person’s property. If there was something dangerous on someone else’s property and that dangerous condition caused your injury, that property owner is liable for your injuries and is required to pay you compensation.
The most common examples of premises liability include negligent security, slips and falls, and dog bites. If you have been injured in these or other situations, seek legal help from the Decatur premises liability lawyers at Shiver Hamilton Campbell can make the process easier. We will guide you through the next steps and help you with physical and financial recovery.
Elements of Premises Liability
If you have been injured on someone else’s property, the property owner is not automatically at fault. You will need to prove the following three elements:
- The property owner owed a duty of care to the victim (the victim was a guest or customer, for example).
- The property owner breached their duty due to negligence or a wrongful act.
- The property owner’s breach of duty caused the victim to suffer damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Slips and Falls
Slips and falls are the most common type of premises liability claim. Slips and falls can happen due to spills, debris, clutter, and weather conditions such as rain, ice, and snow. These accidents can happen anywhere—even in your own home. However, if you experience a slip and fall on someone else’s property—such as a grocery store or restaurant—then you can file a claim against the property owner for any injuries you sustain.
Dog Bites
Dog bite claims are also common. Millions of people are bitten by dogs in the United States every year. While many of these injuries are minor, dog attacks have been known to cause disfiguring injuries and even death, especially in children and the elderly.
In Georgia, a dog owner is liable for a dog bite if they knew the dog was vicious. If the dog is deemed “vicious,” the owner can be held liable for an unprovoked attack or for their own carelessness.
Negligent Security
Property owners have a duty to provide reasonable security measures to protect visitors from harm. If a person is a crime victim due to a lack of protection, that is called negligent security. Negligent security can lead to assault, battery, rape, or robbery.
It is often more beneficial to sue the property owner rather than the person who committed the actual crime because locating the property owner is usually easier. Plus, the property owner likely has the financial means (insurance) to compensate the victim for their damages.
Contact Our Decatur Premises Liability Lawyer Today
Property owners have an obligation to keep their premises safe for guests and customers. When the owners fail to do so, and injury occurs, they can be held liable.
Were you injured in a premises liability case? If so, the Decatur lawyers at Shiver Hamilton Campbell can help you file a claim against the property owner and obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Schedule a free consultation by calling (877) 215-6111 or filling out the online form.