Black Friday: Shopping Woes!

slip and fallThe day after Thanksgiving, also known as Black Friday, is the busiest shopping day of the year in the United States. Retailers pull out all the stops in hopes of attracting shoppers. These tactics include offering huge sales on many of the season’s most popular items, including toys and electronics. Retailers promote these deals aggressively, and it is not unusual for shoppers to line up outside stores hours in advance in hopes of being able to take advantage of these discounts.

Unfortunately, there is a downside to Black Friday. The natural excitement brought about by these store events, combined with large groups of people packed together tightly, waiting to enter the store, can sometimes result in injuries or even death. There have been too many incidences where crowds have become unruly and shoppers have been injured or even killed in the crush.

Other possible causes of injuries include slip and fall accidents that can take place inside or outside the store. Confrontations between shoppers have also been a problem in the past, as is the possibility of car accidents in a very full parking lot.

Because of the real threat of Black Friday injuries, consumers should be aware of their surroundings when they go shopping and take precautions to protect themselves. However, it is also true that stores and shopping malls can be held responsible for injuries and accidents. Premises liability requires business owners to take reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of their patrons. Failure to take these precautions can open up the mall or store to legal challenges, including lawsuits by those affected by the retailer’s negligence.

Be safe out there! But remember: If you or a family member suffer injuries on Black Friday, you may benefit from speaking with the Tampa personal injury attorneys at Wagner, McLaughlin & Whittemore. Our attorneys would be happy to review your case and explain what, if any, legal strategies may exist that can help you receive compensation for your injuries, including medical care.