Whether you are shopping at a hardware store, department store, or even a grocery store, you are legally seen as an invitee on another’s property. The owner of the store or the property itself has a legal duty to ensure that you, as a shopper, can be in a reasonably safe environment. When the store’s management has failed to adequately address in-store dangers or warn the people of the store of possible dangers, they could be held liable for any injuries sustained. If you have been injured as a shopper in a store, you should know that you have the legal right to seek compensation for your injuries or damages.
The Most Common Retail Store Injuries
One of the most common forms of personal injury incidents that can happen in retail stores is that of slip and fall accidents. Retail stores, however, can also be held liable for other forms of personal injury incidents. The following are other common ways in which a person can sustain injuries while in a store:
- Overhead inventory that has fallen onto a customer,
- Injuries sustained by a child from defective shopping carts,
- Injuries sustained from large crowds in the store, and/or
- Injuries sustained from being in immediate areas surrounding the store that include but are not limited to the store’s parking lot.
The Consequences of Sustaining an Injury
It is likely that as a customer, your chances of being injured in the store are small. Accidents can nonetheless happen. If you have suffered an injury while being in a retail store, there are several repercussions you may face. These can include, but are not limited to:
- The inability to return to work due to the injuries sustained
- Long medical treatments that may lead to high medical costs
- Stress-related medical conditions
- Depression
Suffering an injury can also have lifelong consequences. For instance, a slip and fall accident can lead to a traumatic head or spinal injury. These sorts of injuries can often lead to lifelong pain and bodily impairment. Other injuries such as burns, fractures, and lacerations can also lead to lifelong pain and visible scarring.
Important Steps to Take After an Injury
The following are a few of the most important steps you should consider taking if you have suffered an injury while in a retail store. It is important to consider taking these steps even if you do not believe you have suffered any injuries. Many injuries can take many days or even weeks to manifest. Taking immediate action is crucial as failing to do so can hinder or even prevent you from receiving restitution for your injuries.
- Let an employee know so that he or she documents the incident.
- Get the contact information or witnesses or employees who were present.
- If possible, take as many pictures as you can of the scene.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
You Have the Legal Right to File for a Personal Injury Claim
Due to premises liability laws, you have the right to file a personal injury claim against the retail store where you sustained the injury. Seek the advice of a qualified and experienced attorney who can guide you through the process of filing for a claim. The attorneys at Sanford A. Kassel, APLC are dedicated to helping those who suffered injuries in retail stores. With the support of a qualified attorney, you could receive restitution for the injuries you have sustained.
