When you go to the mall or a supermarket, you don’t expect to have to avoid hazards such as spilled milk or falling objects. Unfortunately, things like this happen to consumers every day. When a person is injured while shopping, what are their rights and options? Moreover, who can be held accountable when this occurs?
These are very common questions that injured patrons have. This post will briefly explain why they can be compensated depending on the situation. As always, the following is not legal advice.
Generally, a consumer is considered an invitee; someone who is invited onto the property for a specific purpose. In most cases, invitees are welcomed into a store for the purpose of purchasing a product or service from the owner. When invitees come to a store, there is an expectation that the store owner has taken reasonable steps to make sure the property is free of hazards. If there are hazards (like the spill we mentioned earlier), the store owner is tasked with removing it before a consumer is injured.
Of course, not every hazard can be removed quickly. In these instances, the store owner has a responsibility of notifying consumers of the hazard and even cordoning off the area so that they are not at risk of being injured.
If a storeowner fails to adhere to its responsibilities, it could be held liable for the injuries suffered by a consumer. Essentially, an injured customer could seek money damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost wages.
If you have questions about what to do after a supermarket or mall accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can help.
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