Serious injuries can turn out to be financially destructive, especially if they are completely unexpected. Injuries can happen anywhere, including a well-established stores and chains.
If you weren’t concentrating on where you were going at the time, then you have no choice but to accept responsibility for any injuries. However, if the accident was the fault of an employee at the store, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against that person or the owner of the store.
Injuries in a Stores May be Possible
Due to the innumerable amount of retail chains, there is always the chance that safety aspects may not be as well-attended to in the store you visit. It’s when safety standards slip that accidents, especially if they are of the more common slip and fall variety, are most likely to happen.
Possible Hazards While Shopping
The potential dangers at a store are minimal when it is well-run. Dangers should always be avoided and prevented, and if nothing can be done immediately, customers should be clearly warned. The following dangers may be present when the store is not so well managed.
- Poor lighting or visibility in particular areas, making it difficult to see potential hazards;
- Loose floor covering, e.g. torn carpeting, creating a trip and fall hazard;
- Areas of the store where goods are being arranged, rearranged or moved around without notices warning customers to take extra care;
- Slippery ice or snow at the entrance to the store in winter that was not cleared away within a reasonable timeframe;
- Slippery floors due to routine cleaning, without a warning sign posted;
- Elevator coming to rest without being in line with the outside floor surface, causing a potential trip danger.
Why a Lawsuit Against a Retail Store Might Be Justified
A lawsuit is justified if negligence has caused your injuries and the negligence can be attributed to the actions of a person or persons who work for the store. Clear evidence showing proof of negligence and how this caused your particular injuries is required.
One example of an incident at a retail store that might provide grounds for legal action would be if you tripped over uneven flooring. If the damaged floor remained that way for several hours, it should have been cordoned off while awaiting repairs. The lawsuit would be aimed at recovering costs associated with your injury.
Hire an Attorney If You Are Pursuing Legal Action
It can be hard trying to pursue legal action without professional help. An experienced slip and fall attorney can advise you on your chances of success if you decide on legal action and negotiate more persuasively if you hire him or her to pursue the claim on your behalf.
When you go to meet your attorney, it can be helpful to bring certain information and specific documents with you. This will make it easier to hit the ground running during your meeting and put you in an even better position to make your claim. Your lawyer will take all of this information to form your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
*Disclaimer
The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Crate & Barrel, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
