What to Do if You Are Injured at a Store or Business
Slip and fall accidents that happen at a store or business can sometimes be freak accidents that no one could have foreseen or prevented. However, more often than not, they happen because of a hazard that a store or business didn’t handle properly.
Here’s what you need to know if you were injured while at a store or business.
A Business’ Duty to its Customer
Every business or store is responsible for ensuring a safe environment for its customers—whether it involves fixing a broken stairstep or warning of potentially hazardous conditions like wet floors. A business owner or employee should immediately remove or warn of any dangerous conditions. This is the responsibility of the store or business because they have more knowledge about their premises than a customer and are better equipped to keep them clear of any danger.
Every business should implement regular inspections and have employees watch the premise during hours of operation. Businesses can be held liable for injuries caused by an employee who didn’t take care of a dangerous condition.
Large stores or businesses are often run improperly, resulting in premise liability cases. Some conditions that can result in a personal injury claim are:
- Wet floors
- Substances on the floor that haven’t been removed
- Merchandise that is misplaced or not visible
- Merchandise that falls due to product displays not being put up properly
- Bunched-up floor mats
- Steps or landing platforms that are poorly constructed
Accidents on Business or Store Property
The first thing you should do after experiencing an injury on a business’ property is to seek medical help by calling 911. Even if your injuries don’t seem severe, wait on an ambulance to arrive so a medical professional can help you get up and look at your injuries.
It is also important to notify an employee after an accident, take pictures of any issues like broken steps, wet floors, or hazardous conditions that led to your injuries. If your injuries prevent you from moving, do not attempt to do so on your own—wait for medical help and enlist the help of a friend, family member, or customer at the store.
What Should You Do Next?
Most likely, a store manager or business owner will be called to the scene. When they arrive, you should describe what led to your accident. Upon receiving this information, a store manager or owner will write an accident report. This will help your claims as the document should include the date, time, location, and details of the fall and your contact information.
What Injuries Can Occur?
Don’t be afraid to let EMS evaluate you once they arrive. If they transport you to the ER allow them to provide any recommended procedures or tests like MRI or CT scans. Getting your injuries properly treated will not only ensure you heal properly but will provide medical evidence for your personal injury claim.
Types of injuries that can occur in premise liability cases:
- Bones fractures/breaks
- Spinal injuries
- Head injuries, including traumatic brain injury
- Back injuries
Final Thoughts
If you were injured at a business or store, you should contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Some injuries can progress and become more severe later on than expected, and an experienced attorney will help you receive a settlement that can cover any potential permanent or worsening injuries. A lawyer will guide you through the entire process of your claim so that you can focus on healing after your accident.
