Shopping is a routine activity that many people enjoy. However, this experience can quickly become traumatic when accidents happen. As a visitor, you have the right to a safe shopping environment, and retailers have a legal obligation to provide it.
Recognizing common retail hazards can help you stay safe and understand your rights if an accident occurs.
Potential dangers when visiting a retail store
When visiting a retail store, it is essential to be vigilant about these potential hazards:
- Slippery floors due to spills or recent cleaning
- Uneven surfaces or loose floor mats
- Poorly lit areas, especially in parking lots
- Falling merchandise from overstocked shelves
- Cluttered aisles obstructing walkways
- Malfunctioning automatic doors
- Escalator and elevator mishaps
- Shopping cart accidents
- Unmarked steps or changes in floor elevation
- Exposed electrical wiring or cords
Under the law, property owners must keep their premises safe for visitors. This means they need to regularly inspect their property, quickly fix any hazards and provide clear warning signs for any dangers. If they fail to do so, visitors could sustain head trauma, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, paralysis and other severe injuries.
Take legal action immediately
If injured due to a store’s negligence, it is best to file a premises liability claim. This legal remedy allows you to obtain compensation for your injuries, which is crucial if you need continuous medical treatment and wage replacement for time away from work.
In New York, the comparative negligence rule can reduce your compensation if you share partial fault for the accident. For instance, the court might decrease your award if you tripped over a visible obstacle while distracted by your phone.
When you are ready to seek justice and compensation for your pain, consider enlisting the help of a personal injury attorney. This step can significantly impact your case’s outcome.