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Columbus Premises Liability Lawyers

Are You in Need of a Columbus Premises Liability Lawyer?

You expect the places you visit to be safe, whether it’s a grocery store, shopping mall, office building, hotel, or apartment complex. Unfortunately, many property owners fail to meet their responsibility to keep visitors reasonably protected. When hazards are ignored or safety procedures are neglected, innocent people can suffer serious and even life-changing injuries.

If you or someone you love was hurt on someone else’s property due to unsafe conditions, you may have a valid premises liability claim. Under Georgia law, property owners and occupiers have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions and warn of known dangers. When they fail to do so, and someone gets hurt as a result, they can be held liable for the damages.

Whether your injury occurred in a retail space, apartment building, parking lot, or public venue, Butler Prather LLP is here to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.

Why Choose Us Over Other Premises Liability Lawyers in Columbus?

Premises liability cases can be complex. You may be up against large corporations, property management companies, or insurance carriers determined to avoid responsibility. That’s why choosing the right law firm matters. Here’s why so many people choose our law firm when they suffer serious injuries:

  • More than 35 years of legal experience representing clients in catastrophic injury and premises liability claims.
  • Ten verdicts over $100 million, including some of the most substantial results in U.S. legal history.
  • Over $349 million recovered in class action lawsuits for clients harmed by corporate and institutional negligence.
  • Nationwide litigation success, with cases successfully handled in more than 30 states.
  • Founding partner James E. Butler Jr. is featured in the Legends of the Bar Series by the Atlanta Bar Association for his courtroom achievements.
  • Trial-ready from day one. We prepare every case like it’s going before a jury, because many of ours do.
  • No fee unless we win. You pay nothing upfront, and we only collect if we secure compensation on your behalf.
  • Personal attention and compassionate service. We listen, we explain, and we stay by your side from start to finish.

Contact a Trusted Premises Liability Lawyer Today

If you’ve been seriously hurt because a property owner failed to maintain a safe environment, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Property owners and their insurers will try to limit your compensation, but you deserve more.

At Butler Prather LLP, we’ve built our firm on standing up for people when it matters most. We’ve taken on powerful businesses and major corporations, and we’ve won. Our legal team is ready to put that experience to work for you.

Call (706) 322-1990 to learn more today.

Do You Have a Legitimate Case?

Not every injury on someone else’s property automatically qualifies as a premises liability claim. Under Georgia law, you must prove the following to file a successful claim or lawsuit:

  1. You were lawfully on the property. This includes invitees (like customers at a business) or licensees (like social guests). Trespassers generally have limited legal protections unless the owner acted recklessly or willfully.
  2. There was a dangerous condition on the property. Examples include:
    • Wet floors or spills
    • Cracked or uneven walkways
    • Loose carpeting
    • Broken stairs or handrails
    • Poor lighting in stairwells or parking lots
    • Inadequate security in high-crime areas
    • Falling merchandise or debris
    • Collapsing balconies, ceilings, or decks
  3. The owner knew or should have known about the danger. Property owners must regularly inspect their premises and fix or warn about known hazards. We gather evidence to show they failed in this duty.
  4. You were injured because of that hazard. There must be a direct link between the unsafe condition and your injury.

What Is a Premises Liability Accident?

Premises liability is the legal responsibility that individuals and businesses have to prevent accidents that harm others. The people who own or control public and private organizations must take reasonable precautions to eliminate hazards that cause injuries.

Property owners, managers, and employees are required to perform the necessary oversight to anticipate hazards before someone gets seriously harmed. If they knew about a hazard, or if they should have known about a hazard, and they failed to take action, they can be held liable for their negligence when someone is injured.

Examples of premises liability include:

  • A delivery company that hires an employee with an unsafe driving record.
  • A supermarket that fails to post a “Caution: Wet Floors” sign after mopping up a spill.
  • A mall that fails to provide regular servicing for their escalators.
  • An apartment building owner who fails to fix a stairway with broken steps or a loose handrail.
  • A school or park with unsafe playground equipment.
  • The owner of a parking garage with inadequate lighting.
  • A pool owner who fails to install a fence at least four feet high and a self-closing and self-latching gate, as required by Georgia law.
  • A rental property owner who fails to install safety bars and anti-slip shower mats or decals.
  • A construction company that exposes workers to hazardous chemicals, explosions, or unsafe working conditions.

Examples of Premises Liability Accidents in Columbus, GA

In addition to taking reasonable precautions, responsible parties must also abide by local, state, and federal building codes and safety regulations. You have the right to expect that sensible safeguards have been put in place to prevent accidents that cause severe injuries.

The experienced trial lawyers at Butler Prather LLP have won compensation for clients who were harmed by various types of premises liability accidents, including:

  • Slip and fall accidents
  • Missing or malfunctioning fire alarms
  • Negligent security
  • Dog bites
  • Walkway obstructions
  • Building fires
  • Toxic exposure
  • Parking lot and garage accidents
  • Stairway falls
  • Workplace injuries
  • Uneven and broken sidewalks
  • Drowning and pool accidents
  • Elevator and escalator accidents
  • Falling merchandise

Situated along the scenic Chattahoochee River on the border with Alabama, Columbus, Georgia, is a great place to live and raise a family. The area has a diverse economy, and Columbus Airport makes it easy to travel. If you were harmed by a premises liability accident, getting the right legal assistance will help you continue to enjoy the amenities this lovely community has to offer.

What’s the Legal Process for a Premises Liability Case?

Every premises liability case is unique, but most follow a general timeline. Here’s what to expect when you work with Butler Prather LLP:

Free Consultation

We’ll listen to your story, assess your injuries, and determine whether you have a viable legal claim. We’ll also explain your rights, potential compensation, and what comes next.

Investigation

We immediately begin gathering evidence, including incident reports, video footage, photos of the scene, maintenance records, and witness statements. We may also consult with engineers or building code experts to assess the conditions that caused your injury.

Filing the Claim

We file a formal claim against the property owner, manager, or other responsible parties and notify their insurance provider. If they deny liability or refuse a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit on your behalf.

Discovery

This is the legal phase where both sides exchange evidence and take sworn testimony (depositions). Discovery allows us to uncover key information about what the property owner knew and when they knew it.

Negotiation and Mediation

In many cases, a fair settlement can be reached through negotiation or mediation. We approach this process strategically, using the strength of our preparation and evidence to push for maximum compensation.

Trial

If no reasonable settlement is offered, we prepare to take your case to trial. We present your case clearly, powerfully, and persuasively to a jury, relying on decades of courtroom experience and results.

Resolution

Whether through settlement or verdict, we work to ensure you receive the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses caused by the accident.

Who Is Liable for Premises Injuries?

Whether it’s a small business, a large corporation, or an individual, owners are ultimately responsible for what happens on their property. Owners cannot simply rely on their employees or a management company to make sure their property is free of hazards. Preventing accidents requires constant diligence.

Businesses must have written policies in place to prevent foreseeable accidents, and these rules must be enforced. Employee training, regular safety meetings, and oversight are required. There should also be procedures that allow for the reporting of unsafe conditions.

Your Columbus personal injury attorneys will investigate the accident and file a claim against anyone whose negligent behavior contributed to your injuries, such as:

  • Homeowners
  • Landlords
  • Retailers
  • Businesses
  • Government entities
  • Property management companies

How Can a Premises Liability Lawyer Help?

Butler Prather LLP guides you through the legal process, including evaluating the strength of your claim, compiling necessary documentation, and negotiating settlement offers with the defendant and their insurance carrier.

If the other side is unwilling to make a reasonable offer, we're also always prepared to take your case to trial (and we have a very impressive track record when it comes to winning in court).

Compensation Available for Victims of Premises Liability Injuries

When a premises liability injury occurs, the business will often go to great lengths to avoid paying for the harm they have caused. They frequently instruct employees to get the victim to make statements that could damage a claim. Companies will also hide or destroy incriminating evidence against them.

The investigators at Butler Prather LLP will review your medical records, interview witnesses, and collect physical evidence. We will also consult expert witnesses and subpoena company records to determine who is responsible for your injuries.

When our investigation is complete, our Columbus premises liability lawyers will file a claim or a lawsuit that includes the following types of damages:

  • Current and future medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Medications
  • Disfigurement
  • Medical devices
  • In-home nursing care
  • Disfigurement
  • Emotional distress
  • Rehabilitation and physical therapy
  • Wheelchair ramps for your home
  • Reduced earning capacity
  • Wrongful death

Dangerous Conditions Demand Serious Legal Action

Call (706) 322-1990 for a free case review with Butler Prather LLP.

Injuries Caused by Premises Liability Accidents

After an accident occurs, dial 911 and seek immediate medical assistance. It’s important to see your doctor right away and report all your symptoms, even if they don’t seem serious. Many types of catastrophic injuries, such as brain injuries and nerve damage, will increase in severity over time.

Injuries caused by Columbus premises liability accidents may prevent the victim from resuming their career and enjoying an active lifestyle. In many cases, a family member, such as a spouse, will be forced to take time away from work to care for someone injured in a premises liability accident.

Common premises liability injuries include:

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Premises Liability Case in Georgia?

The statute of limitations is the legal time limit for filing a lawsuit. In Georgia, it's usually two years for personal injury claims. If you don't file your claim within this timeframe, you could lose the right to seek compensation.

More than that, you'll want to contact the premises liability attorneys at Butler Prather LLP right away because we can take steps to preserve evidence and start interviewing witnesses while their memories of the event that caused your injuries are still fresh.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

Butler Prather was always three steps ahead - Zack Hendon (5-Star Google Review)

I associated Butler Prather LLP to help me bring justice to two boys whose father was killed in a terrible accident. This was a complex premises liability case involving a multinational corporation. Butler Prather was always three steps ahead of these defendants. When they say they are "exceptional trial lawyers," this is not just a slogan, but it is a way of life.

Everyone was thorough, available, and compassionate - Kathy Thrasher (5-Star Google Review)

Mr. Jim Butler and his colleagues worked diligently on my behalf. Their ability to navigate our situation gave me and my family peace of mind that our case was in competent hands. Everyone was thorough, available, and compassionate as they guided and assisted me through this difficult time.

Speak With an Experienced Columbus Liability Lawyer

At Butler Prather LLP, we’ve helped thousands of people get the resources they need to receive essential medical treatment and care for their loved ones after an accident. We’ve dedicated our legal practice to getting justice for victims and holding negligent people accountable for their actions.

Our Columbus premises liability attorneys will treat you and your loved ones with respect and compassion, and we are always available for our clients.

Call (706) 322-1990 to schedule a free consultation.

Premises Liability FAQs

What is premises liability?

Premises liability is an area of personal injury law that holds property owners legally responsible when someone is injured due to unsafe or defective conditions on their property. This can include falls, inadequate security, poor lighting, structural failures, and more.

Do I have a premises liability case?

If you were legally on someone else’s property and were injured because the owner failed to maintain a safe environment or warn you about a known hazard, you may have a valid claim. A free consultation with our team can help determine whether you have a case.

What types of accidents are covered under premises liability?

Premises liability claims may arise from:

  • Slip or trip and fall accidents
  • Uneven or broken stairs
  • Falling objects or collapsing ceilings
  • Poor lighting
  • Inadequate security leading to assault
  • Swimming pool accidents
  • Unsafe conditions in stores, apartments, or public spaces

What damages can I recover in a premises liability case?

You may be eligible to recover compensation for:

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Costs related to long-term care or disability

Every case is unique, and we evaluate the full impact of your injury to pursue maximum compensation.

Can I sue a business if I was injured on their property?

Yes. Businesses like stores, restaurants, hotels, and apartment complexes are required to maintain safe premises. If your injury was caused by a hazard they failed to address, you may have grounds to file a premises liability claim.

What if there were no warning signs about the hazard?

If the property owner failed to post signs warning about hazards like a wet floor or broken step, it can strengthen your claim. Property owners have a duty to either fix the hazard or clearly warn visitors about it. If they failed to do either, they may be liable.

Do I need a lawyer for a premises liability case?

Yes. Property owners and their insurance companies often deny responsibility or minimize claims. Our legal team at Butler Prather LLP investigates your case, preserves evidence, handles all negotiations, and is fully prepared to take your case to trial if needed.

How much does it cost to hire Butler Prather LLP?

We handle premises liability cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you. Your consultation is always free.

Meet Our Attorneys

Ramsey B. Prather

Ramsey B. Prather is a partner at Butler Prather LLP, where he represents individuals and families in complex and high-stakes litigation, including catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and product liability cases. Known for his precise legal strategies and relentless preparation, Ramsey has been instrumental in securing life-changing results for clients facing the aftermath of serious injuries caused by negligence.

Ramsey’s practice is rooted in the belief that thorough preparation and client-centered advocacy are the foundation of meaningful legal outcomes. He takes a hands-on approach to every case, from investigating the facts to preparing arguments for trial, ensuring each client receives the full benefit of the firm’s resources and experience.

James E. Butler Jr.

James E. Butler Jr. is the founding partner of Butler Prather LLP and one of the most respected and accomplished trial attorneys in the United States. For more than four decades, he has led precedent-setting litigation in catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and product liability cases, with a long record of multi-million and billion-dollar verdicts and settlements.

James has secured ten jury verdicts over $100 million and served as lead counsel in some of the most significant product defect and complex civil cases in U.S. legal history. He is widely known for his fearless approach to litigation, meticulous case preparation, and unwavering commitment to justice.

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Columbus Office:
105 13th Street
Columbus, GA 31901

Mailing address:
P.O. Box 2766
Columbus, GA 31902

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Columbus Personal Injury Attorneys

I was in a complex premises liability case involving a multinational corporations. Mr. Butler & his associates were always three steps ahead of these defendants. When they say they are "exceptional trial lawyers," this is not just a slogan but it is a way of life.”
- Zack Hendon