Businesses and stores that are open to the public are frequently at risk for premises liability claims.
Businesses are legally obligated to maintain a safe environment free of hazards for guests and customers.
Is my store at fault if someone slips and injures themselves inside?
Whether a store is at fault for injuries obtained on its premises depends on the circumstances surrounding the fall. Businesses must fix hazards or dangerous conditions that they are aware of so that the premises remain reasonably safe for guests and customers. When a business is negligent in its duty to maintain a safe place and someone injures themselves due to that negligence, the business is at fault.
What consequences could my store face if someone injures themselves inside?
A person injured on the premises of a business can file a premises liability lawsuit against the business or business owners for being negligent and failing to maintain a safe environment. Businesses found liable for premises liability are subject to paying damages including the cost of medical treatment as well as pain and suffering.
How could I protect my business from premises liability claims?
If an injury occurs on the premises of your business, do not hesitate to seek legal representation to protect your business. An attorney will conduct an investigation, take photographs of the scene, gather and preserve evidence and take statements from witnesses. All of this information will be helpful in defending your business from a premises liability claim.
Businesses should make every effort to correct any potentially dangerous situation as soon as they become aware of it. If an immediate fix is not possible, post warnings about the hazard and block off the dangerous area.