Need Help with a Lawsuit After Being Injured in a Georgia Shooting?
Get results with an experienced Atlanta shooting victim lawyer
If you or a loved one was shot on someone else’s property, an Atlanta shooting victim lawyer from our experienced legal team can help you get fair compensation for the physical and emotional injuries you’ve suffered.
As “Georgia’s Power Law Firm,” Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C. has helped injury victims and their families recover more than $1 billion. Find out how an Atlanta shooting victim attorney can help you.
Contact us today for your free case evaluation. We have offices in Duluth, Atlanta, Lithonia, College Park, Gainesville, Conyers, Jonesboro, and Marietta.
The person who fired the gun will probably face serious criminal charges. Did you know you may be able to bring civil action against the owner of the property where the shooting took place for having negligent security and failing to protect you?
Property owners are supposed to take reasonable measures to ensure the safety of everyone who visits their venue or place of business. Unfortunately, a lot of them cut corners and then try to avoid liability when someone gets seriously injured or killed as a result.
Shootings can take place anywhere, but some of the more common places they occur include:
- Shopping Malls
- Retail Stores
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores
- Apartment Buildings
- Hotels and Motels
- Bars, Nightclubs, and Restaurants
- Office Buildings
- Parking Lots
- Gas Stations
- ATMs and Banks
Whether you were shot by a gunman in a poorly lit parking lot or an active shooter opened fire and injured you while you were inside a shopping mall, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the property owner for failing to provide adequate security.
Our dedicated Atlanta shooting victim lawyers can listen to you, answer your questions, explain your legal options, and help you figure out the best way to move your case forward. You need to act fast — the longer you wait, the more you run the risk of losing out on the compensation you’re entitled to.
Let us get started on your case right away so we can protect your rights and deliver real results.
“Like normal, [the] insurance company was only worried about them and not the people that are really affected. Called Gary Martin Hays, and they took care of the rest. Great people to work with.” - Chad W., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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FAQ About Shooting Victims’ Rights in Georgia
Find answers to frequently asked questions about shooting victims’ rights in Georgia. Use the links below to navigate:
- What are the rights of shooting victims in Georgia to seek compensation?
- What types of compensation can shooting victims recover in Georgia?
- How can a lawyer help shooting victims and their families in Georgia?
- What is negligent security, and how can it help a shooting victim’s case?
- Can I file a lawsuit for a fatal shooting in Georgia if the shooter wasn’t caught?
- What legal options do I have if a loved one was killed in an Atlanta shooting?
- What steps should I take if I was injured in a shooting in Georgia?
- Who can be held responsible for a shooting injury or wrongful death in Georgia?
- How do I know if a property owner is liable for a shooting on their premises?
- Can a personal injury lawyer help with shootings at apartment complexes or rental properties?
- What evidence do I need to prove liability in a Georgia shooting case?
- How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a shooting injury or wrongful death in Georgia?
- What types of insurance policies can cover a shooting injury in Georgia?
- How can a lawyer determine who is liable for a shooting in Georgia?
- What should I look for when choosing a shooting victim lawyer in Atlanta?
- Do personal injury lawyers charge upfront fees for shooting injury cases in Georgia?
What are the rights of shooting victims in Georgia to seek compensation?
If you or a loved one was affected by a shooting, understanding your rights is the first step to obtaining justice and the resources necessary for recovery. Georgia provides shooting victims and their families with several potential avenues for compensation, depending on the circumstances. Here’s a list of important rights:
- Right to File a Personal Injury or Wrongful Death Claim: Victims and their families can seek compensation for medical costs, funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship.
- Right to Hold Property Owners Accountable: Property owners may be held responsible if the shooting occurred due to negligent security measures on their premises.
- Right to Pursue Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or malicious intent, Georgia law may allow for additional damages to punish the responsible party.
- Right to Investigate Liability Beyond the Shooter: Victims have the right to investigate other potentially liable parties, such as property owners, business operators, and security firms.
An attorney can guide you through these rights, ensuring you’re fully informed and supported as you navigate this complex process.
What types of compensation can shooting victims recover in Georgia?
No one should ever expect to get shot on someone else’s property, but sadly, shootings happen all the time in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Property owners have a responsibility to protect you from known danger, yet many don’t take that responsibility seriously enough and fail to take adequate steps to keep you safe.
Our law firm can make them pay for their negligence. When you’ve been shot, the last thing you need is stress about ongoing medical costs and the financial burden that comes with being seriously injured. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including the cost of future care and physical therapy
- Lost wages from missed time at work
- Loss of earning capacity
- Cost of replacement services, such as childcare or housekeeping
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
The best way to determine what your case might be worth is to take advantage of your free consultation with our dedicated legal team. Put our experience to work for you, and let us get started on your case today.
How can a lawyer help shooting victims and their families in Georgia?
A lawyer helps shooting victims and their families by investigating the incident, gathering evidence, and identifying all potentially liable parties, such as property owners or security companies. They handle negotiations with insurance companies to seek fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering. Additionally, an attorney supports the family through the legal process, allowing them to focus on recovery and healing. With their expertise, victims and families have a better chance of securing justice and financial stability.
What is negligent security, and how can it help a shooting victim’s case?
Negligent security lawsuits often involve a victim getting injured or killed on commercial property, such as an apartment complex or shopping plaza, due to the property owner failing to take appropriate steps to prevent foreseeable acts of violence.
For example, if the owner of a nightclub in Atlanta failed to increase security on their premises following a recent shooting in the area, that property owner could be held liable if someone were to then get injured or killed in a shooting at their club afterward. That’s because the violent act could be considered “foreseeable” since a similar crime just took place in that same area. Other common forms of negligent or inadequate security include:
- Insufficient lighting in dark areas
- Failing to monitor security cameras/lack of security cameras
- Installing fake cameras to give a false sense of security
- Poorly trained or unqualified security guards
- Failing to fix broken locks, doors, gates, fences, etc.
If you or someone you love was shot on someone else’s property, our Atlanta shooting victim attorneys can investigate and build a strong case on your behalf to prove the property owner is legally responsible for your damages.
Can I file a lawsuit for a fatal shooting in Georgia if the shooter wasn’t caught?
Yes, it is possible to file a lawsuit for a fatal shooting in Georgia even if the shooter has not been caught. Families can pursue a wrongful death claim against other potentially liable parties, such as property owners, businesses, or security companies if negligent security or unsafe premises contributed to the incident. An experienced attorney can help identify responsible parties, gather evidence, and seek justice and compensation on behalf of the victim’s family. This can provide financial relief and a sense of accountability even if the shooter remains unknown.
What legal options do I have if a loved one was killed in an Atlanta shooting?
The loss of a loved one due to a shooting is devastating. In Atlanta, families have specific legal options to help them seek justice and financial stability after such a tragedy. Here are the main legal avenues:
- Wrongful Death Claim: Family members may file a wrongful death claim to recover damages such as funeral expenses, medical costs, and loss of companionship.
- Survival Action: This type of claim can be filed on behalf of the deceased’s estate, allowing family members to recover damages the victim could have claimed if they had survived.
- Claims Against Third Parties: In some cases, third parties like property owners, event organizers, or employers may be liable for negligent security or negligent actions that contributed to the tragedy.
- Punitive Damages: If the act was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be sought to hold the responsible parties fully accountable.
Having an experienced lawyer by your side can help ensure that you explore every legal option available and seek the justice and compensation your family deserves.
What steps should I take if I was injured in a shooting in Georgia?
The immediate aftermath of a shooting can be overwhelming. Taking these first steps can help secure critical evidence and protect your rights to pursue a claim. Here’s what to prioritize:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Getting medical help right away is vital, not only for health but also to document injuries, which can be essential evidence.
- Contact Law Enforcement: Filing a police report can help document the incident and may later assist in proving liability.
- Gather Evidence from the Scene: If possible, collect photos, videos, or witness information to preserve crucial details about the incident.
- Document Your Injuries and Recovery Process: Keep records of medical treatments, diagnoses, and any symptoms or limitations that result from the shooting.
- Consult an Attorney: Speaking to a lawyer early on can help you make the right decisions from the start and ensure you don’t inadvertently harm your case.
These steps lay the groundwork for a strong claim, and an attorney can help you manage these details to protect your future.
Who can be held responsible for a shooting injury or wrongful death in Georgia?
Determining liability in a shooting case can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. Potentially liable parties include:
- The Shooter: The primary party responsible, whether they’re a known individual or an unknown assailant.
- Property Owners: If the shooting occurred on someone’s property, owners may be held accountable for failing to provide adequate security.
- Event Organizers or Employers: Organizers and employers have a duty to keep environments safe, and they may be liable if they fail to prevent foreseeable harm.
- Security Companies: Security companies contracted to protect a location or event may also bear responsibility if they did not fulfill their duties.
An attorney can identify all parties potentially liable for a shooting and ensure they are held accountable, providing your family with the justice you deserve.
How do I know if a property owner is liable for a shooting on their premises?
In some cases, a property owner may be held liable if it’s shown that inadequate security or negligence contributed to the shooting. Factors that may establish property owner liability include:
- History of Prior Incidents: If similar incidents happened previously on the property, owners may be expected to take additional safety measures.
- Lack of Security Measures: Insufficient lighting, lack of surveillance cameras, or absence of security personnel can indicate negligence.
- Failure to Address Known Risks: Ignoring known dangers, like an unlit parking area or broken locks, can lead to liability.
- Inadequate Response to Threats: If property owners were aware of a potential threat but took no action, they might be held responsible.
An attorney can evaluate these and other factors to determine if a property owner can be held liable for the shooting, helping ensure you don’t face this fight alone.
Can a personal injury lawyer help with shootings at apartment complexes or rental properties?
Yes, an Atlanta personal injury lawyer can assist in cases involving shootings in apartment complexes or rented properties. They can investigate whether the property owner or management failed to provide adequate security measures, such as lighting, surveillance, or security personnel, which could have helped prevent the incident. By proving negligence on the part of the property owner, a lawyer can help victims or their families pursue compensation for damages. Legal representation ensures that all avenues for accountability and support are explored.
What evidence do I need to prove liability in a Georgia shooting case?
Building a strong case requires solid evidence. Essential types of evidence to establish liability include:
- Police Reports and Surveillance Footage: These can document the incident and provide insights into what occurred and who was involved.
- Medical Records: These prove the extent of injuries, linking them directly to the shooting incident.
- Eyewitness Testimony: Statements from people present can help establish what happened and identify responsible parties.
- Documentation of Prior Incidents: Records of previous violent incidents on the premises can support claims of property owner negligence.
Collecting and organizing evidence can be challenging, but an attorney will have the resources and expertise needed to gather and present a compelling case.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a shooting injury or wrongful death in Georgia?
Georgia law imposes a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a lawsuit after a shooting injury or wrongful death. Generally, victims have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. Missing this deadline can prevent you from pursuing compensation, so it's important to act promptly. Consulting a lawyer as soon as possible ensures your rights are protected within the legal timeframe.
What types of insurance policies can cover a shooting injury in Georgia?
Understanding potential sources of compensation can be key in covering the costs of recovery. Insurance policies that may provide compensation include:
- Property Insurance Policies: Some property owners’ insurance policies may cover injuries from shootings that occur on their premises.
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance: If the shooting took place at work, workers’ compensation may cover medical bills and lost wages.
- Personal Injury Protection: In certain situations, PIP coverage may apply to help with medical expenses and lost wages.
- Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance: Homeowner’s or renter’s policies may cover injuries under specific conditions, especially if negligence is involved.
Navigating insurance claims is complex, and an attorney can help you identify all policies that may cover your damages and pursue the maximum compensation available.
How can a lawyer determine who is liable for a shooting in Georgia?
A lawyer can investigate liability in a Georgia shooting by gathering evidence such as police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements to understand the circumstances of the incident. They may also examine the history of the property to see if there were previous violent incidents or negligent security measures that could point to property owner negligence. Additionally, they can work with security experts to assess whether the safety measures in place met industry standards. Through a thorough investigation, a lawyer identifies all responsible parties, strengthening the case for compensation.
What should I look for when choosing a shooting victim lawyer in Atlanta?
Choosing the right attorney to handle a shooting case is essential for getting fair compensation and justice. Here’s what to look for:
- Experience with Personal Injury and Shooting Cases: A lawyer with a strong background in personal injury and premises liability cases will know how to navigate the complexities.
- Proven Track Record of Successful Settlements: An attorney with a history of securing compensation in shooting or similar cases shows they can handle challenging claims.
- Understanding and Compassion: A lawyer who approaches your case with empathy will support you through this difficult time.
- Clear Communication: Find an attorney who keeps you informed and answers questions promptly.
Working with a skilled attorney can provide peace of mind and confidence that your case is in the right hands.
Do personal injury lawyers charge upfront fees for shooting injury cases in Georgia?
Typically, there are no upfront costs to hiring a Georgia personal injury lawyer for a shooting case, as most work on a contingency fee basis. This means that clients only pay if the lawyer successfully recovers compensation on their behalf. The contingency arrangement allows victims and families to access legal representation without financial strain. By working with a lawyer on these terms, families can focus on healing while the attorney handles the legal process.
Let an Atlanta shooting victim lawyer help you
Our dedicated legal team knows how to handle cases involving negligent security and aggressively advocate for your best interests. We also offer shooting victims a “zero fee guarantee.” That means you pay nothing unless we win.
Are you the family member or loved one of someone who was tragically killed in a Georgia shooting? We can help you pursue a wrongful death claim. While no amount of money can bring your loved one back or take away your pain, recovering compensation from the negligent property owner can be an important step in the healing process.
See what the Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C. can do for you. Contact us today for your free case evaluation.
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