Whether you’re searching for the perfect birthday gift for a friend or treating yourself to new clothes for work, going to your local mall can be exciting. Though it may not seem like a dangerous place, there are often hazards in these locations that can result in patrons sustaining serious injuries. If this reflects your circumstances, connecting with an Orlando slip-and-fall lawyer is in your best interest. The following blog explores the kinds of accidents that can occur and how liability is determined in shopping mall accidents.
What Kind of Accidents Can Happen in a Shopping Mall?
Typically, the most common kind of accident that can occur in a shopping mall is slip-and-falls. Common hazards that can result in these accidents include:
- Debris or merchandise left on the ground
- Spills
- Unsecured Wires
- Unanchored carpeting
- Broken floor tiles
- Poor lighting
- Unsafe stairs
It’s imperative to understand that these accidents aren’t just limited to the inside of the premises. If you are injured due to potholes or broken walkways outside on mall property, you can seek compensation. Slip and fall injuries can lead to serious injuries, like broken bones, soft tissue injuries, head and neck injuries, traumatic brain damage, and back injuries, among others.
However, slipping and falling isn’t the only source of injury at these locations. In many instances, you may find that injuries can occur because of improperly installed fixtures. For example, if you are walking and a lighting fixture falls on you, it can result in serious injuries. As such, lighting fixtures, signs, doors, mirrors, shelves, and improperly stocked merchandise can fall on patrons, resulting in serious injuries. Unfortunately, due to the nature of these accidents, head and neck injuries are most common.
You should note that inadequate security can also result in serious injury to mall patrons. The security personnel employed by the store has a duty to remain diligent and help protect shoppers. If they are negligent, such as failing to install or repair security devices or preventing trespassers from accessing the location, you can sustain traumatic injuries as a result.
How Is Liability Determined?
Because there are so many parties involved at malls, determining liability will depend on several circumstances. The courts will consider the circumstances around the incident, like where, when, and how it happened to determine liability. In general, however, malls are legally obligated to ensure their premises are safe for patrons. If the incident occurs on mall property, the ownership will likely face liability.
However, if the accident occurs inside a specific retail location, you may also pursue legal action against the company. For example, if an employee did not warn shoppers of a spill on the ground, the company can face liability for injuries that occur as a result of that negligence. Additionally, if security is negligent, the company and the mall can be held liable. This is because the mall is ultimately responsible for hiring the security agency.
These matters can be incredibly complicated, which is why it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced personal injury attorney with Tropical Injury Law Firm to help guide you through these matters. Our team understands that determining liability can be overwhelming, so we are dedicated to helping you navigate these difficult legal processes. If you’re hurt because of someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
