According to Discover Atlanta, 57 colleges and universities are in the Atlanta region. The city is 7th in student enrollment among America’s largest urban areas and 6th in annual college graduates at the bachelor’s level or higher.
Unfortunately, the higher number of colleges and universities in Atlanta, combined with the large populations of students and faculty, naturally leads to a greater frequency of personal injury incidents.
Here, our Georgia personal injury attorneys at Ashby Thelen Lowry discuss how the dense concentration of individuals in a confined space and the busy schedules and diverse activities typical of academic environments create numerous opportunities for injury incidents.
What are the Common Causes of Personal Injury Cases Involving Atlanta’s Colleges and Universities
With so many people navigating campuses daily—whether on foot, in vehicles, or participating in sports and other activities—the potential for incidents increases significantly.
The most common types include, but are not limited to:
- Premises liability incidents caused by slipping and falling on wet floors, uneven surfaces, poorly maintained walkways, or inadequate lighting.
- Vehicle collisions on campus caused by high pedestrian and bicycle traffic, busy parking lots, distracted or impaired driving, and congested campus roads.
- Assaults and violence caused by inadequate campus security, poorly lit areas, and failure to enforce safety measures.
- Negligent supervision or misconduct occurs when faculty or staff fail to supervise students properly, leading to injuries during activities or events.
- Exposure to hazardous materials caused by the improper handling or storage of chemicals in labs, inadequate ventilation, or lack of safety training.
Managing Personal Injury Cases at Atlanta’s Colleges and Universities
Properly managing personal injury cases at Atlanta’s colleges and universities is crucial because these institutions have complex legal frameworks and significant resources to defend against claims.
Given the high number of students, faculty, and visitors on campus, injury incidents are more likely, and ensuring that these cases are handled correctly is essential for securing fair compensation for the injured parties.
That includes:
- Report the Incident Promptly
Notify campus authorities or security immediately after the injury occurs to create an official record of the incident.
- Document Everything
Gather evidence, such as photos of the scene, witness statements, and any correspondence with the school. This documentation will support your claim.
- Seek Medical Attention
Always prioritize health by getting a medical evaluation, even if injuries initially seem minor. Medical records will also be crucial in any personal injury claim.
- Consult an Attorney
Personal injury cases involving educational institutions can be complex, especially if the school is a public university with governmental immunity protections. Our experienced attorneys can navigate these complexities and help determine the best course of action.
Contact our skilled Atlanta personal injury lawyers and support team at Ashby Thelen Lowry at (404) 777-7771 to schedule a free consultation. This initial step will ensure your rights are protected and enable you to make informed decisions about the direction of your claim.