Between the tables groaning with goodies, the annual Macy’s parade and the afternoon and evening football games, there is also the mad rush to shop. Black Friday shoppers seek out the lowest prices and the savviest deals.
Unfortunately, there is a far darker side of Black Friday. The mad rush to buy, buy, buy and snap up bargains can lead to shoppers being seriously injured — and in some cases, even getting killed.
It may not be possible to prevent all shoppers’ injuries. But make no mistake — the stores, malls and shopping centers have a duty to prevent and mitigate their customers’ injuries.
That can involve several different facets. Keeping the premises free of hazards can mean not stocking large, heavy items on high shelves where they can crash down onto the heads and shoulders of the shoppers below.
It can mean hiring sufficient security to safely manage the crowds and prevent a stampede of customers for the door-busting sales. Store managers and owners also need to hire enough staff to quickly clean up any spills or other hazards on the floor from rain or melted snow that could lead to slips, trips or falls.
When store owners fail to diligently maintain their premises, injured shoppers may want to file claims for damages and premises liability lawsuits. We can help you get the justice you deserve after suffering injuries while battling the crowds this Black Friday.
As we head on in to Thanksgiving week, we encourage all of our clients to have a joyful and memorable holiday celebrated with family and friends.
