Retail stores, Orchard Supply included, are legally obligated to ensure a safe environment for their customers. Regardless, accidents can happen. Many of the items in a hardware store can be dangerous if handled or displayed improperly, for example.
Here are some of the potential dangers in a hardware store:
- Many items for sale are large and heavy. If they fall on top of you, you could be knocked off your feet and be injured. This could be something that would justify a personal injury claim.
- Stray products or trash on the floor can be a tripping hazard, and if the store does not ensure that these hazards are removed, they may be negligent, and therefore possibly liable for any injuries that you sustain in this scenario.
- Heavy rainfall and flooding can make getting to the store entrance tricky. If the area is the responsibility of the store (e.g. a parking lot) and you slip over in a large pool of rain water then this could be construed as the fault of the store owners.
Considering a Claim? Speak With an Attorney
If you are considering taking legal action against Orchard Supply Hardware or any other store because you had an accident in one of their stores, you should first talk to a personal injury attorney. The attorney will assess your chances of success based on the availability of evidence, witnesses, the seriousness of the injuries sustained, and the actual circumstances of the accident.
If a personal injury lawsuit is recommended, you will certainly have more chance of success if you retain the attorney for the negotiations. The claim process may not have to go to court, but if it does you will be glad you have an experienced attorney working on your side!
*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 Orchard Supply Hardware, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
