Some people enjoy visiting shopping malls and browsing stores, whereas others only do so when necessary. Regardless of whether an individual finds galavanting in a shopping mall to be a joy or pain, all visitors should be able to roam the premises without fear of getting injured. Unfortunately, severe slip-and-fall accidents can occur when the appropriate parties fall short of their duty to provide a safe environment for patrons and hazardous conditions are left unaddressed. If you or a loved one has been injured in a shopping mall, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of a seasoned Prince George’s County Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer who can help hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence. Please continue reading to learn how to safeguard your legal rights after a slip-and-fall accident in a shopping mall.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Injuries in Shopping Malls?
Due to the bustling activity of overcrowded shopping malls, various slip and fall hazards exist. It’s up to mall management and store owners to uphold their legal duty of care by promptly remedying hazardous conditions to prevent accidents and injuries. They can be held liable for their negligence if they breach their duty to customers. The following include but are not limited to some of the main reasons that people are injured in slip and fall accidents while shopping in a mall:
- Slippery or cracked flooring
- Torn carpeting
- Debris and merchandise on the floor
- Wet entrances due to inclement weather conditions
- Overcrowded aisles and walkways
- Faulty escalators and elevators
- Inadequate lighting
- Inadequate security
- Broken stairs and handrails
- Electrical cords that are not adequately secured
- Cracks and potholes in parking lots
What Should I Do if I’m Injured in a Shopping Mall in Maryland?
If you were injured in a shopping mall, taking the proper steps to protect your legal rights to compensation is essential. Without realizing it, many victims make mistakes that diminish their ability to recover monetary compensation for their damages. Don’t make the same mistakes. Following a slip and fall accident in a shopping mall, the first step you should take is to seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to have a thorough medical examination to ensure you receive the proper treatment. You should report the incident to mall management or the store manager. They will document your report, providing essential details for your legal claim.
Furthermore, you should gather as much evidence as possible if you can. This includes capturing pictures of the hazardous conditions that caused the accident and your injuries. If there are any witnesses, gather their contact information, as they may be able to corroborate your claim. However, the most crucial step you can take is retaining the legal services of an experienced lawyer.
At Timian & Fawcett, LLC, we are prepared to help you navigate this complex legal process and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. If the case proceeds to trial, you can rest assured that our legal team will protect your rights and interests. Contact us today to discuss your case.