If you have had a slip and fall on premises belonging to a business, you may have a case for compensation in the state of Georgia. A slip and fall accident can result in serious injuries, leaving you unable to work. There are medical bills to pay and the prospect of not being able to go back to your old career or seek promotion due to injuries that were not your fault.
It is understandable that when you have a slip and fall on business premises you will want to seek compensation from the owners or operators of the premises. One of the questions that prospective clients often ask the Fry | Goehring during the consultation is whether they need a lawyer. Technically, the answer is no. You are not obligated to hire the services of a lawyer. However, facing the insurance company or lawyers of a large business could present a significant challenge.
Who is Responsible?
Just because an accident occurs on the premises of a business it doesn’t mean the business owner is liable. The first action of a personal injury lawyer is establishing who the defendant is in your slip and fall accident. The lawyer will then discuss any potential compensation claim with the insurance company or the lawyer representing the business. This is an important stage of the claim and will greatly impact on how long it takes you to receive any compensation for your injuries.
There is also the chance that more than one party or entity is responsible for your accident. Understanding liability is crucial as it is a complex area of the law when it comes to slip and fall accidents. An experienced lawyer will quickly establish any parties who are likely at fault and represent you in the pursuit of fair compensation. Going it alone will make the process more complicated in most cases, so think carefully before you attempt to take on a business without the support of a lawyer.
Insurance Companies
Think about the business model that all insurance companies basically adhere to – paying out as little as possible on claims. An insurance company does not want to cover your costs. Even small businesses may have access to a large insurance provider who understands the law and how it applies to premise liability. You, on the other hand, are not likely to have ready access to the same type of knowledge.
Dealing with insurance companies can be complicated. If you say the wrong things it could damage your chances of receiving fair compensation, even if the slip and fall weren’t due to your own actions. You can attempt to negotiate with the insurance company but even the task of evaluating the worth of an accident is difficult if you do not have the experience of a personal injury lawyer.
For more advice on fighting for compensation in a slip and fall accident, reach out to the Fry | Goehring to avail of a free consultation with a knowledgeable and experienced accident lawyer in Georgia.
