When Are Businesses Financially Liable for Injuries?

In Georgia, businesses have a legal responsibility to keep their premises safe for customers, employees, and other visitors. Under Georgia premises liability laws, if a business fails to maintain safe conditions and someone is injured as a result, the business may be held financially liable for the injury. At Boudreaux Law Firm in Augusta, GA, we help injury victims understand their rights and pursue compensation when businesses are negligent in maintaining their properties.

What Are Premises Liability Laws?

Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility property owners have to ensure their property is free of hazards that could harm visitors. For businesses, this means identifying potential dangers, fixing unsafe conditions, and warning visitors of any risks. If a business neglects these duties and someone is injured, the business may be required to compensate the injured person for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

According to Georgia law, property owners owe different levels of care depending on the type of visitor. Invitees, such as customers or clients, are owed the highest level of care since they are on the property for the business’s benefit. Businesses must regularly inspect their premises for hazards and take reasonable steps to correct them.

Common Causes of Injuries on Business Properties

Businesses can be held liable for a wide range of injuries caused by hazardous conditions. Some common causes include:

1. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly maintained walkways are leading causes of injuries on business premises. If a business fails to clean spills or repair damaged flooring, it may be held liable for slip-and-fall accidents.

2. Inadequate Maintenance

Businesses are responsible for maintaining their facilities, including elevators, escalators, stairways, and lighting. Injuries resulting from equipment malfunctions, broken stairs, or poor lighting can lead to financial liability if the business failed to perform routine maintenance or repairs.

3. Negligent Security

If a business is located in an area where crime is a known risk, it has a duty to provide adequate security measures. This may include hiring security personnel, installing surveillance cameras, and ensuring that entry points are secure. If a business fails to provide reasonable security and a visitor is injured due to criminal activity, the business may be held responsible.

4. Falling Objects

In retail environments, poorly stacked merchandise or unsecured fixtures can fall and injure customers. Businesses are responsible for ensuring that shelving and displays are stable and safe.

When Is a Business Liable for an Injury?

For a business to be held financially liable under Georgia premises liability laws, the injured person must prove that:

• The business owed a duty of care to the injured person (e.g., the person was a customer or guest).
• The business breached that duty by failing to maintain safe conditions or provide adequate warnings.
• The breach of duty directly caused the injury.
• The injury resulted in damages, such as medical bills, lost income, or pain and suffering.

If these elements are proven, the business may be required to compensate the injured person for their losses.

What to Do If You Are Injured on Business Property

If you are injured on a business’s property, taking the following steps can help protect your legal rights:

• Seek medical attention immediately to document your injuries.
• Report the incident to the business owner or manager and request a written report.
• Gather evidence, including photos of the hazardous condition and contact information for witnesses.
• Consult an attorney to evaluate your case and advise you on your legal options.

Navigating a premises liability claim can be complex, especially when businesses and their insurers try to deny responsibility. Our experienced attorneys at Boudreaux Law Firm provide skilled legal representation to injury victims in Augusta and throughout Georgia. We thoroughly investigate each case, identify liable parties, and pursue the maximum compensation available under the law.

Contact Boudreaux Law Firm for a Free Consultation

If you were injured on business property due to unsafe conditions, you may be entitled to compensation under Georgia’s premises liability laws. At Boudreaux Law Firm, we are committed to protecting the rights of injury victims and holding negligent businesses accountable. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue justice and financial recovery