Slips or trips and falls are a common occurrence throughout the nation on a daily basis. For many people, the result of this type of fall is only an embarrassing experience. However, in other cases, a slip and fall accident could result in significant injuries, resulting in large hospital bills and lost income due to missing time at work.
Slip and fall accidents also become more prevalent and severe as individuals get older and more prone to injuries. When a slip and fall injury occurs, it is essential to seek the assistance of an attorney who understands the claim process. At Lopez Law, an attorney will discuss your legal options for recovering the compensation you deserve under Georgia law.
The potential compensation for a slip and fall claim typically depends on the severity of the injury and damage to the individual involved in the incident. Slip and fall injuries can be based on many factors, including the age of the person involved. Elderly individuals commonly sustain more falling accidents and more severe injuries, such as hip fractures. Fortunately, compensation is available to help individuals injured in slip and fall accidents recover the damages sustained, including:
- Medical care expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Insurance companies rarely make it easy for an injured individual to recover the compensation they deserve. One common occurrence when dealing with an insurance company is victim blaming, in which they attempt to shift the blame for the accident to the injured person. A slip and fall lawyer from Lopez Law could work with an insurance company to present an injured person’s case in the best light.
An at-fault party’s negligence in a slip and fall incident can take many forms, depending on the circumstances of the incident. Most slip and fall injury claims involve accidents that occur on the property of another individual or company. Among the many types of slip and fall accidents, the most common incidents typically involve one of the following:
- Icy, snowy, or rainy conditions
- Cracked or uneven sidewalks
- Oily, greasy or wet floors
- Loose or worn carpets
- Unsafe or damaged staircases
- Exposed wiring or cords
The cause of a slip and fall incident can have an effect on the potential recovery for an injured individual; however, property owners are generally responsible for maintaining their property in a way that prevents dangerous conditions. A lawyer at Lopez Law could review a claim to determine the responsible party.