May 7, 2025 | Personal Injury
The Georgia Aquarium is one of Atlanta’s most visited attractions. While the aquarium is known for hosting safe marine life exhibits and programs, accidents can still happen, from slips and falls on wet surfaces to injuries during animal encounters.
If you or a loved one has been injured at the Georgia Aquarium, it is important to understand your legal rights under Georgia premises liability laws.
Understanding Premises Liability in Georgia
Property owners, such as the Georgia Aquarium, owe a duty of care to visitors legally on their premises under Georgia law. This requires them to use ordinary care to maintain safe conditions, promptly address hazards, and warn visitors about known dangers.
To succeed in a premises liability claim, you must prove:
- The Aquarium had a duty to keep the premises safe.
- The Aquarium breached that duty through negligence.
- The Aquarium’s breach directly caused your injury.
- You suffered actual damages such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Proving your case can be challenging, but an Atlanta premises liability attorney can help.
What to Do After Being Injured at the Georgia Aquarium
Acting quickly and carefully is essential if you have been injured at the Georgia Aquarium. Your actions after an injury at the Georgia Aquarium may significantly affect your recovery and the success of a potential legal claim. Here are some steps to take to protect your health and rights:
Seek Medical Attention
It is important to be evaluated by a medical professional, even if your injuries initially seem minor. Some injuries, such as concussions or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms immediately.
Report the Incident
Inform Georgia Aquarium staff as soon as possible and request that they complete an incident report. Be sure to obtain a copy or get confirmation that the report was filed.
Document Everything
Take clear photographs of the hazardous conditions that caused your injury, such as a wet floor, broken railing, or faulty equipment. Photograph your injuries and the surrounding area where the incident occurred.
Collect Witness Information
Ask for the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident. Their statements could support your version of events if a dispute occurs later.
Preserve Evidence
Keep any physical evidence from the incident, such as your clothing or shoes. These items may help demonstrate the conditions that contributed to your injury.
Taking these steps immediately after an injury can strengthen your case and prevent important evidence from being lost or overlooked.
Types of Accidents That Can Occur at the Georgia Aquarium
Accidents at the Georgia Aquarium can occur when safety measures are not followed.
Some of the most common incidents include:
- Slipping on wet floors: Water from exhibits or cleaning can create slippery conditions. Visitors may suffer fall-related injuries if floors are not promptly cleaned or marked with warning signs.
- Tripping hazards: Uneven flooring, loose mats, or debris left in walkways can lead to trips and falls, especially in crowded areas.
- Malfunctioning exhibits or equipment: Broken handrails, faulty interactive displays, or sharp edges on exhibits can cause cuts, falls, or other injuries.
- Inadequate security or crowd control: Poorly managed crowds, especially during busy times, can result in falls, trampling, or altercations when proper supervision is lacking.
These are just some situations that may form the basis of a premises liability claim. If you or a loved one has been injured, speak with a personal injury attorney about whether you may have a claim.
Liability Waivers and Their Impact
The Georgia Aquarium may typically include liability disclaimers in its ticketing terms and waivers for certain programs, such as animal interactions. These terms might state that guests assume the risk of injury and release the Aquarium from liability for an accident.
However, under Georgia law, such waivers may not always shield a business from liability, especially in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. You may have a claim even if you think you waived or released your rights, so do not hesitate to speak with a lawyer.
Injured at the Georgia Aquarium? Contact an Atlanta Premises Liability Attorney Today
While the Georgia Aquarium strives to provide a safe environment for visitors, accidents can occur anywhere. Understanding your rights is important if you suffer an injury due to potential negligence. Schedule a free consultation with an Atlanta personal injury lawyer to discuss your right to pursue potential compensation.
Contact our Personal Injury Lawyers at Goldstein Hayes & Lina, LLC for Legal Help With Your Case
If you suffered serious injuries after an accident in Atlanta, Georgia we are here for you. If you’d like to schedule a free case consultation with an experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney from Goldstein Hayes & Lina, LLC, please don’t hesitate to call (404) 869-8600, or you can visit our office:
Goldstein Hayes & Lina Accident Lawyers
3060 Peachtree Rd NW UNIT 1000,
Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 869-8600