When you step into a retail establishment in New York, you’ll immediately see a significant amount of merchandise stocked at elevated heights. When merchandise is carelessly placed or when shelving is not properly maintained, a typical shopping excursion can quickly become dangerous. An object falling can cause devastating injuries. If a falling item in a store injured you, it’s in your best interest to contact our skilled Westchester County Slip and Fall Accident Attorneys, who can guide you through your legal options.
Can You File a Claim for a Falling Object Injury?
When objects fall and cause harm, this can lead to a premises liability claim. Businesses in New York have a legal obligation to maintain a safe environment for visitors, and determining fault rests on whether the business acted responsibly. For a successful claim, you must demonstrate the establishment’s negligence. Common scenarios where items fall include:
- Merchandise or products tumbling from racks or displays
- Goods piled up incorrectly
- Storage zones are filled beyond capacity
- Staff members dropping materials
Incidents involving falling items are often avoidable accidents, typically stemming from hazardous procedures or poor upkeep. Common causes of falling object accidents include:
- Improper placement or stacking on shelves
- Not adequately fastening goods
- Insufficient employee instruction
- Dangerous restocking methods
- Disregarding recognizes dangers
What Steps Should I Take After Being Struck by a Falling Object in a Store?
If you’ve been struck by a falling object in a store, it’s crucial to understand that the actions you take immediately following the incident are vital to the success of your claim. Prompt action helps to secure pertinent evidence that might otherwise vanish or change. Your primary concern should be to seek medical care. Your health is most important, and even minor-seeming injuries should be assessed by a medical professional. The resulting medical documentation will serve as key proof to support your claim.
In addition, you should report the event by informing store management and asking for a formal incident report to be filled out. It’s important to ensure all facts noted in the report are accurate, and if possible, obtain a copy for your personal records.
Furthermore, the strength of your claim relies on meticulous documentation. If you’re physically capable, you should collect evidence where the accident took place. Capture images and video footage of the location, the item that caused the accident, the state of nearby shelving, and any absence of warning signs or unsafe setups. It’s also advisable to gather information from anyone who witnessed the event.
At Hausman Law Group, we are prepared to protect your rights. Our legal team is ready to investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and represent your interests in court if necessary. We recognize that falling object accidents are usually preventable. Our attorneys can help you determine who is liable for your damages. Reach out to our firm today to schedule a consultation. We will tirelessly fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.