Slip and Fall Accidents in Retail Stores
When slip and falls result in injury, it is no laughing matter. Slip and fall accidents are quite common in retail establishments. During peak shopping periods, such as the winter holidays and the change of seasons, the risk of becoming injured in a slip and fall accident increases dramatically.
While most slip and fall accidents result in minor injuries, many of these accidents leave victims with serious and sometimes disabling injuries. Negligence on the part of the property owner can lead to a premises liability claim that holds the owner liable for injuries. It is not easy to prove negligence, but an experienced and skilled premises liability lawyer can help you claim the compensation you deserve.
Most Common Types of Slip and Fall Injuries
Shopping related slip and fall accidents occur in malls, clothing outlets, home improvement stores, specialty shops, and supermarkets. Foot traffic is high in these establishments, so the risk of slippery surfaces and other fall hazards leave customers prone to accidents. While every slip and fall accident is unique, the following types of injuries that result are common:
- Head Injuries: Falling on a hard surface, such as asphalt, marble, or tile can result in a serious head injury. When people fall forward or backward on a wet or slippery floor, the impact to their head can leave them with brain injuries that can have physical and cognitive consequences.
- Back and Spinal Injuries: Injuries to the spinal column can cause paralysis or neurological damage. Broken bones, or injuries to the muscles, tendons, and vertebrates in the back can result in a lifetime of pain and suffering that can affect the victim’s quality of life and mobility.
- Broken Bones, Cuts, and Lacerations: Broken bones, cuts, and lacerations often require long periods of recovery. In some cases, these types of injuries can be severe and lead to surgery, hospitalization, and rehabilitation that result in lost wages and high medical bills.
Premises Liability Lawsuits
A property owner has a legal duty to ensure that their retail establishment is free from unnecessary hazards. Broken handrails on steps, uneven surfaces, pot holes and wheel stops in parking lots, snow covered or icy sidewalks, wet or slippery floors, poor lighting, and failure to put area rugs and warning signs in wet entry ways are examples of negligence that can result in a premises liability lawsuit.
The burden of proof in this type of lawsuit falls on the plaintiff. Pictures of the accident scene, witness testimony, medical documentation, and evidence of lost wages are imperative for a successful outcome. A qualified and skilled premises liability lawyer can ensure that the victim’s legal rights are protected and that the maximum amount of compensation is claimed.
Piscataway Slip and Fall Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Represent Victims of Slip and Fall Accidents in Retail Stores
If you or someone you know has been injured in a slip and fall accident, the Piscataway slip and fall lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr can help you claim the compensation you deserve. Call us at 732-537-8570 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. Our offices are in Highland Park, New Jersey, and we serve clients throughout the state, including the areas of New Brunswick, Somerset, Piscataway, Edison, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, and Colonia.
