A sudden slip and fall can leave you shaken, injured, and confused about what to do next—especially when it happens in a place where you should feel safe, like a grocery store, apartment complex, or shopping center. In Georgia, property owners have a legal duty to keep their spaces reasonably safe. If they fail to do so and you get hurt, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
This guide outlines the steps to take after a fall, how Georgia law protects you, and what to expect if you pursue a premises liability claim.
Common Places Where Slip & Falls Happen
In Athens, slip and fall accidents happen in many everyday locations. Some of the most common include:
- Grocery stores and retail shops
- Apartment hallways, staircases, or sidewalks
- Restaurants and bars
- Office buildings
- Parking lots and garages
- Convenience stores and gas stations
In many cases, these accidents are caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, loose mats, or uncleared snow or ice. Whether you’re a shopper or a tenant, you have rights if negligence led to your injury.
Your Rights Under Georgia Premises Liability Law
Under Georgia Code § 51-3-1, property owners and managers have a duty to keep their premises safe for “invitees”—this includes customers, renters, guests, and others lawfully on the property. If a hazard is known (or should have been known) and not corrected in a reasonable amount of time, the owner may be liable for any injuries that occur.
To bring a successful claim, you must generally show:
- A hazardous condition existed on the property
- The property owner or manager knew (or should have known) about it
- The hazard caused your injury
- You were using the property as intended
What to Do Immediately After a Slip and Fall
Taking the right steps after a fall can make a significant difference in your health and your legal claim. Here’s what to do:
- Get medical attention, even if you think you’re okay. Some injuries may worsen later.
- Report the accident to the property owner, store manager, or landlord. Request an incident report.
- Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any hazards or missing warning signs.
- Collect witness information, including names and contact details.
- Preserve your shoes and clothing, as they could serve as evidence.
- Avoid speaking with insurers or giving recorded statements until you consult a lawyer.
Also, write down what happened while it’s still fresh in your memory.
Types of Injuries Common in Slip & Fall Accidents
Even a low-level fall can result in serious injury. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones (hips, wrists, ankles)
- Head injuries, including concussions or TBIs
- Sprains and torn ligaments
- Back or neck injuries, including herniated discs
- Facial injuries, cuts, and bruising
- Long-term mobility issues, especially in older adults
These injuries often require significant medical care and time off work.
Can Tenants Sue Landlords in Georgia?
Yes. Tenants may have a valid claim if a landlord fails to maintain safe conditions in common areas. Examples include:
- Water leaks causing slippery surfaces
- Broken steps or missing handrails
- Inadequate lighting in hallways or stairwells
- Unmaintained sidewalks or icy walkways
Under Georgia law, landlords must take reasonable care to respond to maintenance issues and safety hazards in shared spaces. If they don’t, they could be liable.
What Compensation Could You Receive?
If the property owner is found responsible, you may be eligible to recover damages for:
- Emergency medical bills and ongoing treatment
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Lost wages from time missed at work
- Pain and suffering
- Reduced earning capacity
- Emotional distress or reduced quality of life
In rare, extreme cases, punitive damages may also apply if the property owner showed reckless disregard for safety.
How Hall & Collins Can Help with Your Claim
At Hall & Collins Accident & Injury Lawyers, LLC, we help injury victims across Athens and Georgia stand up to negligent landlords, business owners, and insurance companies. Our experienced attorneys:
- Investigate the accident and secure time-sensitive evidence
- Work with medical professionals to document your injuries
- Handle all communications and negotiations with insurers
- Prepare your case for trial if a fair settlement isn’t offered
We offer free consultations, and you pay no legal fees unless we win your case.
Common Questions About Slip and Fall Cases
What if I was partly at fault?
Under O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33, Georgia’s modified comparative negligence law allows recovery if you were less than 50% at fault.
How long do I have to file a claim?
You typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in Georgia.
What if the hazard was cleaned up before I took photos?
Eyewitnesses, surveillance footage, and incident reports can still support your case. Act quickly and contact an attorney.
Your Safety Should Never Be an Afterthought
No one expects to get hurt while shopping, visiting a friend, or walking through an apartment hallway—but when property owners fail to take safety seriously, you shouldn't have to bear the consequences alone.
Call Hall & Collins Accident & Injury Lawyers, LLC at (706) 940-7889 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you understand your rights, build a strong case, and pursue the compensation you deserve.