Retail & Supermarket Accidents and Injuries
Long hours and loads of shoppers can cause store owners and employees to forget or neglect common safety practices, resulting in an increased likelihood of retail and supermarket accidents and injuries. As the holiday season commences, many of us will be making multiple trips to our favorite supermarkets and retail stores to find items for the perfect holiday meals and gifts for our loved ones. Amidst all the fun and excitement of these preparations, it is important to be aware of the potential risks that large crowds can bring. Before you begin your shopping this year, be aware of the dangers that could jeopardize your plans and your health, and know your options for compensation if an accident does occur.
Retail & Supermarket Injury Prevention
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as many as 30 million people suffer accidental or unintentional injuries each year in the United States. More than half of these are the result of slips, trips, or falls — or being struck by, against, or cut by an object. These types of injuries often occur in public places, such as retail stores, supermarkets, and shopping malls. While often attributed as accidental in nature, these accidents are often the result of a store or property owner’s negligence.
Negligence is defined as doing something or failing to do something that a reasonable person would have done. For store owners and employees, this means taking care to do the following to prevent accidents and injuries:
- Cleaning up spills on wet floors and removing broken glass
- Making sure walkways are well lit and in good condition
- Providing hand rails for steps and stairwells
- Keeping aisles clear and uncluttered
- Taking care to ensure shelving and lighting fixtures are secure
- Stocking items properly
Failing to do any of the above could result in serious injuries for customers, while making store owners legally liable for those injuries in their stores.
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
What To Do If Injured While Shopping
Under the South Carolina Tort Claims Act, those whose negligent or reckless actions result in injuries to others could be held liable for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you are injured in a supermarket, store, mall, or other public place, it is important to take the following steps to
protect your rights to compensation:
- Notify a security guard, supervisor, or store employee immediately
- Make sure that an accident report is filed
- Make note of the conditions leading to your injuries, as well as any witnesses at the scene
- Get medical attention as soon as possible, even if you think the accident was minor or you are not experiencing symptoms, as many potentially serious and lingering injuries have symptoms that can take days or even weeks to appear.
Get Help From a Charleston Accident Attorney
If you or someone you care about is injured in a supermarket, retail store, or other public place, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm today. Our experienced Charleston, SC accident attorneys can advise you on how to hold responsible parties accountable to help you get the compensation you need to recover.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
