The day after Thanksgiving, also known as Black Friday, is a time to seek out the best deals and enjoy saving money on high-priced items. For most people, Black Friday is an enjoyable time, but unfortunately, a day at the mall can easily turn into a disaster if you accidentally trip and fall. To make things worse, crowded conditions often prevent store employees from cleaning up spills and clearing the floor of debris in a timely manner. If you plan on shopping this Black Friday, here are some ways to avoid falling at your favorite retail store.
The Difference Between Slips and Trips
Slips occur when there is no friction between the floor or ground and your feet. Some of the most common causes of slips are icy walkways, wet floors, and spills. It is the responsibility of the store and its employees to ensure that spills are promptly attended to, but sometimes, it just doesn’t happen. For this reason, when you are shopping this holiday season, especially in a grocery store or any other retail space that serves food or beverages, remain on the lookout for spills. When walking through the parking lot, avoid icy patches and areas where ice has not had the chance to melt. If it looks as if the store management has not taken the time to clear the parking lot of snow and ice, you may want to avoid shopping there at all.
Trips are just as dangerous as slips, and they occur when your foot comes into contact with an object, causing a loss of balance. Trips frequently occur when retail employees forget or fail to clear the aisles, parking lots, and other walkways of debris and clutter. However, trips and falls can also be caused by the following issues.
- Uneven pavement or flooring
- Cracks, holes, and breaks on surfaces
- Poorly lit walkways
- Stairways without proper railing
- Pushing and shoving
- Wrinkled carpet or rugs
The Potential for Injury
Slips and falls can be dangerous, especially if a victim is elderly or in ill health. After falling, victims are known to suffer from the following medical conditions.
- Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
- Sprains
- Broken bones
- Concussions
Understand Your Rights
Following the tips above and remaining aware of your surroundings is the best way to avoid slips and falls this Black Friday. If you were injured while shopping at a retail store, Guster Law Firm, LLC can help you understand your rights. Contact our Alabama slip and fall attorney today at (205) 581-9777 for additional information.
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