Black Friday is the biggest shopping day of the year. The day after Thanksgiving, thousands of shoppers line up outside stores, hoping to find low prices on the perfect holiday gifts. Many stores hype their Black Friday sales to encourage large crowds. Unfortunately, large crowds can create dangerous situations for shoppers. Our Chicago personal injury lawyers discuss your rights if you sustain Black Friday injuries.
Watch Out for These Black Friday Injuries
When hundreds of people push and shove to get into the store, someone is likely to be injured. The same is true as shoppers rush through the store to snatch and grab limited items before they disappear. While you are searching for deals this Black Friday, watch out for these common Black Friday injuries:
- Slip and Fall Accidents – Keeping the aisles clear of merchandise and other debris can be challenging, creating tripping hazards. Floors can become slick from rain and snow, creating a slipping hazard.
- Falling Objects – Stores have extra merchandise on hand this time of year. Therefore, the shelves are stacked high. If merchandise is not safely stored and secured, it could fall, causing someone a neck or head injury.
- Car Accidents – Everyone is in a rush and traffic is terrible on Black Friday. Pedestrians and drivers are distracted, increasing the risk of car crashes. Parking lots are often too full, with cars parking on curbs. Slow down and watch for drivers and pedestrians who are not paying attention.
- Shopping Cart Injuries – Shopping carts can be dangerous, especially when they are overfilled. The carts can run into people or turn over, causing injuries.
- Assaults – Some stores open at midnight or in the early morning hours on Black Friday. Unfortunately, thieves love to lurk in dark parking lots, waiting for shoppers who are not paying attention because they have armloads of bags. Shop with friends whenever possible and watch your surroundings.
- Inadequate Security – Business owners should have extra security on hand when they know there will be large crowds. Security inside and outside the store can reduce the risk of assaults and other incidents of intentional torts.
As you navigate the Black Friday frenzy, be mindful of these potential hazards to keep your holiday shopping safe and injury-free.
Who Is Responsible for Black Friday Injuries?
If intentional torts caused your injury, the person who attacked you could be liable for your damages. However, that does not relieve the store or property owner from liability. Owners could be liable for your damages under a premises liability claim if they were negligent in allowing the attack to occur. For example, the store knew large crowds were expected, but it did not have additional security and staff to monitor the crowds.
Stores can also be held liable for injuries if they are negligent. Property owners have a duty of care to provide safe premises. Businesses must take reasonable steps to protect shoppers, including additional steps when they know the crowds will be larger than average.
Get More Information About an Injury Claim From Our Chicago Personal Injury Attorneys
If you were injured while shopping, you could be entitled to significant compensation for your injuries. Contact Hale & Monico for a consultation with one of our Chicago personal injury attorneys. We can help you pursue a claim for the compensation you deserve.