What Should I Do After Being Injured at a Store?

When we enter a grocery store, clothing outlet, or some other retailer, we do so trusting that the area is secure and free of hazards. In fact, store owners have a legal duty to keep their premises safe for their customers. Unfortunately, they often fail to uphold this duty. When this leads to accidents, they may be on the hook for compensating injured victims.

If you were injured at a retail location, the best thing to do after seeking medical attention is to have your case evaluated by an experienced premises liability attorney. The legal team at Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C., is standing by to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. 

Common Causes of Personal Injuries in Stores 

All sorts of factors can come together to give rise to accidents at retail locations. However, recurring patterns do emerge. Some of the most common causes of accidents at stores include: 

• Slips, trips, and falls – Slippery floors due to water, excessive waxing, or highly-polished marble tiles, loose carpets, scattered debris, and uneven surfaces can lead to trips, slips, and falls. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are a leading cause of injury nationwide. 
• Falling objects – Poorly shelved merchandise can slip out of place and fall on unsuspecting customers, leading to serious injuries. 
• Poorly maintained equipment – Shopping carts, escalators, elevators, and other equipment commonly found in retail locations can turn into hazards when poorly maintained. 
• Parking lot accidents – Many accidents at stores happen in their parking lots and garages. These areas often have potholes and broken pavement. They may be cluttered with stray shopping carts and moving vehicles, making them dangerous for unsuspecting pedestrians. 
• Negligent security – Poor security measures can result in assaults, robberies, mall shootings, and other violent crimes that can lead to injuries.

Can a Store Be Held Liable for Injuries Sustained by Its Customers? 

Absolutely. Storekeepers and mall operators are not automatically responsible for all customer injuries at their retail locations. However, in New Jersey, store owners and managers are responsible for keeping their premises reasonably safe for customers.

In particular, retailers must keep customers safe by regularly inspecting their properties for potential hazards, repairing or removing hazards as necessary, and warning customers about hazards they are likely to overlook. Failure to do so can lead to premises liability in the event of an accident. 

What Compensation Can I Sue for After Being Injured While Shopping? 

If you were hurt while visiting a store, you could receive significant money for the economic and non-economic impact your injuries have on your life. The skilled legal team at Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C., can help you pursue compensation for things like:

• Medical expenses – This may include past and future hospital bills, doctor visits, prescription medication, physical therapy, and other expenses related to treating your injuries.
• Lost wages – If your injuries caused you to miss work or resulted in a permanent disability, you could receive compensation for your lost wages and lowered future earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering – Compensation may be available for physical pain and suffering caused by your injuries. Unlike many states, New Jersey places no limit on the amount of money a jury can award for pain and suffering, so this form of damages should not be underestimated.
• Property damage – If your personal property was damaged in the incident (e.g., your car in a parking lot accident), you may be entitled to compensation for the cost of repairing or replacing it.

An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate the facts of your case and make sure you don’t miss out on any compensation you may be entitled to. Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C., is a phone call away. We will make sure no stone is left unturned.

What is the Deadline for Filing a Premises Liability Claim in New Jersey? 

New Jersey’s statute of limitations governing premises liability claims gives you two years from the date of an accident to sue the at-fault party. Minors have until their 20th birthday to sue for any injuries that happened up to their 18th birthday. This deadline is strictly enforced, and failure to file your claim before it passes will most likely result in your case being dismissed in court. 

Remember also that having your case reviewed by an attorney sooner than later will give them more time to build a solid claim on your behalf. It will also ensure that crucial evidence does not deteriorate or disappear as time goes by. Do not wait. There is no cost to have your case reviewed by one of our attorneys. 

What To Do After Being Injured in a Store

Protect your interests and call a lawyer immediately, not just any lawyer, but one experienced in representing plaintiffs in personal injury cases like yours. But until then, there are many proactive steps you can take early on to protect yourself and your right to compensation.

• Seek medical attention – Of course, your health and safety are the top priority. If you were seriously injured, you may need immediate medical attention. However, even if you don’t think your injuries are serious, you should still see a doctor as soon as possible. Even minor injuries are compensable and should be thoroughly documented by a medical professional.
• Report the incident – You should notify the store’s management about your injury as soon as possible. Provide them with details about what happened and how you were injured. Ask for a copy of their report. 
• Document the incident – It is important to document the scene of the accident and your injuries. Take photos/videos of the scene (including nearby surveillance equipment), gather contact information from witnesses, and keep track of any other evidence that may shed light on how the accident occurred. 
• Keep track of your expenses – Keep copies of all medical bills, receipts, and any other expenses related to your injury. 
• Consult with an attorney – Do not hesitate to have your case reviewed by an experienced attorney. This is the best way to ensure that you know your full legal rights and options.

Injured in a New Jersey Store? Consult With an Experienced Attorney Today. 

If you were injured at a store, you could be entitled to significant compensation for your medical bills, pain, suffering, and more. Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C., is here to help you down the road toward compensation. Since we opened our doors in 1981, we have secured over $1 billion in settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients and their families. Let us fight for you. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a skilled New Jersey personal injury lawyer. You pay nothing unless we win your case.