Slip and Falls During Holiday Shopping: Who is Liable?

‘Tis the season for injuries. Our attorneys discuss who may be liable and how to make you whole again after a slip and fall accident.

We know how hectic the holidays can be; a herd of frenzied shoppers all rushing around a store trying to get that gift. Fuller parking lots.Not to mention, employees are so busy during this time of year that they may not notice every spill or hazard in the store.With all this chaos, it’s no wonder we see such a greater risk of slipping or falling-related accidents around the holidays.

Today, we’ll go over some common causes of these accidents, and discuss what you should do if this happens to you. If you or a loved one has had a bad slip and fall, call our experienced injury lawyers to help make your spirits bright and get the most compensation to make things right.

Common Causes of Slip and Falls

No accident is exactly the same, but some causes are much more common than others. While out shopping this year, keep these hazards in mind:

• Rain, tracking in water
• Isles cluttered with merchandise
• Stairs without guardrails
• Recently mopped floors (lookout for a sign)
• Potholes, cracks, and uneven sidewalks *if you see it, walk around
• Loose carpet or floor tiles

It’s important to seek out medical attention right away if you slip and fall, no matter who’s property you’re on. Most of the time, people don’t think a slip is that dangerous, but even a minor fall can cause a serious injury. Delaying your treatment could cause your injury to worsen over time and lead to prolonged pain and suffering.

If you do decide to take legal action against the property owner, seeking treatment promptly after the accident will strengthen your case.

How the Property Owner May Be Liable

It’s human nature to make excuses in an effort to be polite, especially during Christmastime.While it may seem like it was your fault for not noticing something and slipping, the property owner is the one ultimately responsible for the hazard in the first place.

Businesses and private property owners are legally obligated to keep their grounds clear of known slip-and-fall hazards. The owners must clear pathways, mop up water, and ensure that no extension cords or other objects become trip hazards to the people that enter the property.

After the Fall

After a fall, you should try to document the incident as soon as possible. Take pictures of the hazard that caused your fall, as well as your injuries.

Talk to any witness at the scene and exchange information, and ask the property owner to file an accident report.

Building Your Case

To get the legal process started, after you’ve received medical treatment, speak with a licensed attorney. They can examine all the information you have regarding the accident, and evaluate how strong your case is.

If you’ve fallen on someone’s property, call the helpful personal injury lawyers at Mickey Keenan, P.A. at (813) 871-1300.

Mickey Keenan, P.A. Will Fight to Make it Right

Now that you know what to look out for, hopefully, you can avoid any falls while rushing around during your last-minute holiday shopping. Unfortunately, we know that no matter how prepared you are, accidents can happen to anyone at any time.

If you slip or fall this holiday season on someone else’s property, contact a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer at Mickey Keenan, P.A. Personal injury laws are complex, don’t try to navigate them on your own.

Schedule your free consultation with our South Tampa injury law firm today at (813) 871-1300 to see how we can help you recover after a slip or fall accident.We’ll fight for you and will work diligently to make things right again.