Even a beloved store can become the site of an unfortunate accident, causing injury for a customer. If you were recently injured while shopping, then you may be eligible for financial compensation by filing a personal injury claim.
Potential Hazards While Shopping
Department stores are typically very large, filled to bursting with tens of thousands of different items. Depending on the area of the store, different accidents are possible when shopping.
- On the main floor: Especially during busy hours, the store floor can become crowded with other shoppers and employees. This often leads to walkways being filled with hangers or clothing that can become tripping hazards. Falling product can also cause injury if any clothes, bags, or other items on the walls topple down onto a customer.
- In the fitting room: While most stores do uphold size and cleanliness standards for its fitting rooms, there can always be mistakes. Some edge dressing rooms can be quite small or easily filled with discarded clothes from other customers, making visitors susceptible to painful trips or falls.
- In the restroom: While store restrooms don't differ from restrooms at any other establishment, they are always at risk of slipping hazards from water build-up or cleaning supplies. Small stalls can also put people in danger of painful bumps or falls.
Providing Evidence on Your Accident
To get compensation from a PI claim, you must prove that your accident is their responsibility and not your own. This is done by providing as much evidence from your accident as possible. The goal is to show that their negligence is what caused you to become injured.
Start by writing down everything you know about the accident, make sure to include:
- why you were visiting store that particular day
- anything out of the ordinary you noticed while shopping
- whether or not you informed a worker of the issue beforehand
- the time, location, and nature of your injury
- the response after your accident
Try to include similar statements from any employees or customers that witnessed the accident. Get pictures of the site of the accident, preferably in the condition it was in when the accident occurred.
Then, save all medical bills and doctor notes to include on your claim so you can explain the pain and cost of your injuries. To find out what steps you need to take in order to file a personal injury claim click here.
If Your Claim Goes to Deposition
When they receive your PI claim, they will do their own investigation of your incident to ensure they were at fault. One way they may get more information is by requesting a deposition. During a deposition, you will be asked to sit with their attorneys and answer questions on the record outside of court.
This may sound intimidating, but the process is common and should go quickly and smoothly. However, if you are worried about participating in a deposition, then it may be in your best interests to speak with an attorney.
Personal Injury Attorneys
Personal injury attorneys are one of the best assets you can have during your case. Their legal knowledge can ensure your demand letter is mistake free, and can help you during depositions or negotiations over compensation.
They also work on contingency, meaning they do not take full payment for their services unless they win your case. To give yourself the best shot at getting compensation for your injuries, consider speaking with a personal injury attorney. Take our Free Case Evaluation today.
*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 Koh'ls, or another party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
