What to Do If You’re Injured in a Shopping Mall During the Holidays
Holiday shopping can be chaotic, and accidents happen. From slip-and-falls to overcrowding injuries, learn how to protect your rights and seek compensation with Drake Law Group.
The holiday season is a bustling time for shopping malls, as they transform into hubs of activity filled with festive decorations, holiday sales, and eager shoppers. While the festive atmosphere is enticing, it also brings an increased risk of accidents and injuries. If you or a loved one is injured in a shopping mall during the holidays, knowing the right steps to take can help protect your health and legal rights.
Common Holiday Shopping Mall Injuries
Shopping malls see a surge in foot traffic during the holiday season, which can lead to accidents caused by a variety of hazards, including:
- Slip and Falls: Wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or spilled liquids can lead to falls.
- Escalator and Elevator Accidents: Malfunctions or improper maintenance can result in serious injuries.
- Falling Objects: Holiday decorations, merchandise, or improperly secured displays can fall and injure shoppers.
- Overcrowding Incidents: Holiday sales often result in overcrowding, which can lead to trampling or other injuries.
- Parking Lot Accidents: With busy parking lots, pedestrians are at risk of being struck by vehicles or slipping on icy surfaces.
Steps to Take After a Shopping Mall Injury
If you are injured in a shopping mall, follow these steps to ensure your safety and protect your ability to seek compensation:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately:
- Prioritize your health and safety by seeking medical care as soon as possible. Even minor injuries should be evaluated to ensure there are no hidden complications.
- Report the Incident:
- Notify mall management or security about the incident. Request that they document the incident in a formal report, and obtain a copy for your records.
- Gather Evidence:
- Take photos or videos of the scene, including the hazard that caused your injury. Document any visible injuries and collect the contact information of witnesses.
- Preserve Medical Records:
- Keep all medical records, including diagnoses, treatments, and bills, as they will be essential for any legal claim.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters:
- If contacted by the mall’s insurance company, avoid giving statements or signing any documents until you’ve consulted an attorney.
Determining Liability in a Shopping Mall Injury
In most cases, the mall owner or tenants may be held liable for your injuries if their negligence caused the hazard. Common examples of negligence include:
- Failing to address known hazards, such as wet floors or broken handrails.
- Neglecting regular maintenance of escalators, elevators, or parking lots.
- Improperly securing holiday decorations or displays.
- Inadequate security measures to control overcrowding or aggressive shoppers.
An experienced personal injury attorney can help determine who is liable and build a case to recover compensation for your injuries.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Victims of shopping mall injuries may be eligible for compensation, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future).
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress.
- Rehabilitation or physical therapy costs.
Why Choose Drake Law Group?
At Drake Law Group, we understand the complexities of premises liability cases and the challenges holiday injury victims face. With over $250 million recovered for our clients, we have the experience and dedication needed to secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been injured in a shopping mall during the holidays, don’t wait to seek legal help. Call us at 844-513-7253 or visit our website for a free consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and recover the compensation you need to move forward.