What is the role of insurance in a slip and fall case in Atlanta?
When you experience a slip and fall accident, dealing with insurance companies is often a key part of the claims process. Property owners and businesses typically carry liability insurance to cover accidents that occur on their premises. While this insurance exists to provide compensation to injured individuals, the reality is that insurance companies are businesses first and foremost—their goal is to minimize payouts whenever possible.
Understanding how insurance works in a slip and fall case can help you navigate the process more effectively and ensure you receive fair compensation.
How Insurance Can Help in a Slip and Fall Claim
If your slip and fall claim is successful, the insurance company covering the responsible party may provide compensation for:
- Medical Expenses – This includes emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages – If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for the income you lost during your recovery.
- Pain and Suffering – In some cases, you may also be entitled to damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Future Medical Costs – If your injuries require long-term treatment or therapy, these expenses may also be covered.
However, while insurance companies can provide compensation, they are also known for making the process difficult for injury victims.
Challenges When Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to pay out as little as possible, which often means using various tactics to reduce or deny your claim. Some common challenges you may face include:
- Low Settlement Offers – Insurance adjusters may offer a quick, low settlement hoping you’ll accept it before realizing the full extent of your injuries. These offers often don’t account for long-term medical expenses or lost earning potential.
- Disputing Liability – The insurance company may argue that you were at fault for the accident or that the hazard was “open and obvious,” meaning you should have seen and avoided it.
- Delaying the Claims Process – Some insurers intentionally drag out the claims process, hoping you’ll become frustrated and accept a lower settlement.
- Using Your Statements Against You – Anything you say to an insurance adjuster can be used to minimize your claim. Even casual remarks like “I’m feeling better” can be twisted to suggest your injuries aren’t severe.
Why Having a Lawyer is Essential
Because insurance companies have teams of lawyers and adjusters working to protect their interests, you need a strong advocate on your side. An experienced Atlanta slip and fall lawyer can:
- Handle all communications with the insurance company, ensuring that you don’t say anything that could hurt your case.
- Negotiate aggressively to secure a settlement that fully covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Gather and present evidence to prove the property owner’s negligence and strengthen your claim.
- Take your case to court if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.
Contact Us Today
While liability insurance is meant to cover slip and fall accidents, insurance companies often put their profits over your well-being. Without legal representation, you risk receiving far less than what you truly deserve—or even having your claim denied altogether.
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, don’t face the insurance company alone. Contact an Atlanta slip and fall accident lawyer, we’re here to help!