What You Need To Know After a Department Store Accident

Most department stores are well-run and provide a safe environment for their shoppers. Most storeowners take every measure possible to make their stores free from any potential hazards and dangers. Unfortunately, with thousands of customers walking in and out of department stores every day, there is bound to be accidents and injured customers.

Accidents do not happen on their own. There is always a cause. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that “9 out of 10 customer accidents result from some form of negligence” on the part of the storeowner.

When a department store is negligent, it can affect you, the customer. This article discusses the common causes of customer injuries, the related legal issues, and the steps you need to take if you have been injured in a department store accident.

Common Causes of Department Store Accidents

Department store customers can be injured in a variety of accidents. According to the National Retail Federation, the most common store accidents include:

• Spilt liquids on the floor
• Obstructions of aisles
• Faulty staircases, elevators, and escalators
• Merchandise falling from shelves
• Cuts from jagged shelves and showcases
• Breakdowns of revolving and slamming doors
• Insufficient lighting in parking lots
• Inadequate security

The Legal Elements To Prove

You have the burden of proof in a department store negligence claim. In order to meet this burden, you must prove the following elements:

• A dangerous condition caused your injuries
• The retailer knew or should have known of the dangerous or hazardous condition or it was foreseeable
• The retailer failed to eliminate or repair the dangerous or hazardous condition
• You didn’t do anything to contribute to your own injury
• The dangerous condition was the direct and proximate cause of your injuries
• You suffered injuries and subsequent damages as a result

The Steps To Take After a Department Store Accident

In order to prove the department store’s negligence, you will need evidence. Good evidence is the key to successfully proving your claim against the retailer. In order to collect good evidence and successfully prove your case, you need to do the following:

• Seek immediate medical help, even if you believe you didn’t suffer serious injuries.
• Call the manager or storeowner and ask to complete a department store incident report. Ask for a copy.
• Get the contact information for any witnesses to the incident.
• Take photographs or video of the scene of the accident.
• Consult with a personal injury attorney who specifically handles these types of cases.

Call an Experienced Los Angeles Department Store Injury Attorney

The legal team at the Law Offices of Samer Habbas is dedicated to helping our clients who have suffered injuries in a department store accident reach the best monetary settlements.

If you or a loved one has any questions about your department store accident claim, our experienced Los Angeles department store injury attorneys are available to personally review your case.  Call us at 1-888-848-5048 to schedule a free, complimentary consultation with our legal team today.