Shoppers Face Several Types of Injury Risks When Stores and Malls Are Not Careful
With the holidays approaching, stores and shopping malls are more crowded than at other times of the year. Whether people are jamming supermarket aisles in preparation for a family dinner or heading to the mall to buy presents, business owners need to be aware of potential hazards. Even a brief lapse, such as the failure to clean up a spill or replace a light bulb, can lead to a serious injury.
Under New York’s premises liability law, customers who are hurt due to the negligence of a retail establishment or other type of business can collect compensation from the liable parties. Potential defendants include store owners, property managers, maintenance companies and contractors. Given that these businesses are inviting customers onto their premises, they have a legal duty to inspect for potential hazards that could harm shoppers. When a problem is identified, the individual or company responsible for the property must fix it, or warn customers of it.
Specific examples of carelessness that trigger personal injury claims include the following:
- Slick floors due to untended spills, recent polishing or moisture tracked in from outside
- Poor walking surfaces caused by uneven flooring, torn mats or cracked pavement
- Merchandise falling from high shelves at supermarkets or discount club stores
- Unsafe lighting due to burned-out bulbs or failure to light parking lots adequately
- Inadequate security in areas known for crime or during periods with high customer volume
Injuries associated with store or shopping mall negligence include broken bones, ligament tears, muscle strains and traumatic brain injuries.
Even if you’re unsure about whether the business where you were hurt is legally liable, you should contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible following the incident. Surveillance video, inspections logs and witness testimony could be vital to prove your case, but these forms of evidence become harder to obtain as time passes. You can also help yourself by photographing the scene and your injuries, and seeking prompt medical care. Avoid giving recorded statements or signing documents before speaking with counsel.
The Law Office of Maurice J. Verrillo, P.C. in Rochester pursues maximum compensation for Western New Yorkers in premises liability claims and other personal injury cases. Our firm has more than 35 years of experience helping victims recover the payment they deserve for their medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering and other damages. For a free 30-minute consultation, please call our office at 585-563-1134 or contact us online.
December 5, 2025 Posted in Personal Injury Tagged malls, personal injury, risks Comments Off on Shoppers Face Several Types of Injury Risks When Stores and Malls Are Not Careful
