What You Need to Know in the Event of a Slip and Fall Accident at a Department Store
If you have suffered an injury as a result of a slip and fall accident in a department store, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. Many times, slip and fall accidents are the result of negligence and the store is liable because the accident could have been prevented. Stores have the responsible to make sure all spills or potential hazards are properly cleaned and up and signage should be placed to warn any customers of the potential hazards.
The store’s management is responsible for ensuring employees properly check the various areas of the store at regular intervals to ensure there are no fall hazards in the way. If a customer notifies personnel of a spill or hazard, it should be immediately cleaned up. Employees should not go past areas than can cause slip and fall accidents either. Instead, they should either stay with the spill until help arrives or post a sign there until they get what is needed to clean up the mess.
Potential Slip and Fall Hazards in Department Stores
Department stores, of course, have a multitude of items. With that product selection come the risks of spills and breaks. Spilled soap, paint, foods, or drinks can make floors very slippery. In the home and garden areas, water can spill from live plants or soil can seep out on to the floor making a muddy substance that is slippery.
Loose floor tiles or turned up rugs can also cause falls, as can cracks in concrete flooring or sidewalks. Department stores must meet building codes and have set safety precautions in place. Failing to adhere to these codes, or meet the general requirements for ensuring customer safety will make the store liable for any falls and injuries that occur.
Have You Been Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident at a Department Store?
Despite the warnings, people are injured in slip and fall accidents at department stores around the country daily. Most of these falls are the result of negligence, which does leave the store liable for damages. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident at a grocery store, consult with a personal injury attorney to see if you have a claim. A personal injury lawyer will work to ensure your medical expenses and loss wages are covered while also ensuring you are fairly compensated for any pain and suffering.
