What Happens If You’re Injured in a Store? Understanding Premises Liability in New York
What Happens If You’re Injured in a Store? Understanding Premises Liability in New York
Shopping should be a safe experience, but accidents can happen. If you are injured in a store due to unsafe conditions, you may have a premises liability claim. At Law Offices of Jonathan Van Dina, PLLC, we assist Hicksville residents in navigating these legal matters and seeking the compensation they deserve.
Understanding Premises Liability
Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners and businesses responsible for maintaining safe conditions. If a store owner fails to address hazards or warn customers of potential dangers, they may be liable for injuries that occur on their premises.
Common causes of store-related injuries include:
- Slip and Falls – Wet floors, spilled liquids, uneven surfaces, or poorly maintained walkways.
- Falling Objects – Items that fall from shelves and cause injuries.
- Poor Lighting – Dimly lit areas that contribute to trips and falls.
- Defective Flooring – Loose tiles, torn carpets, or broken stairs.
Proving Liability in a Store Injury Case
To hold a store liable for your injury, you must prove:
- The store owed you a duty of care – Businesses must maintain a safe environment for customers.
- A dangerous condition existed – There was a hazard that the store should have known about.
- The store failed to address the hazard – The store either knew or should have known about the danger but did not fix it.
- Your injury resulted from the store’s negligence – The hazard directly caused your harm.
What to Do If You Are Injured in a Store
If you sustain an injury in a store, follow these steps:
- Report the Incident – Inform the store manager and request a written report.
- Document the Scene – Take photos of the hazard and your injuries.
- Gather Witness Information – If anyone saw the incident, collect their contact details.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even minor injuries should be evaluated by a doctor.
- Consult an Attorney – A premises liability attorney can help you determine if you have a case and guide you through the legal process.
Compensation for Your Injuries
If you have a valid claim, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
At Law Offices of Jonathan Van Dina, PLLC, we are committed to helping Hicksville residents pursue fair compensation for their injuries. If you were hurt in a store due to unsafe conditions, contact us today to discuss your legal options.
