7 Trip and Fall Risks In a Shopping Center
Shopping centers provide various opportunities for visitors to trip and fall. If you are involved in an accident due to inadequate maintenance or neglect, schedule a meeting with a trip and fall lawyer from Philly Slip and Fall Guys. They will help determine if you are able to obtain compensation for your injury. Here are a few common trip and fall risks in shopping centers:
1. Wet Floors
Wet floors result from spilled drinks, broken plumbing, or poor drainage. Shopping centers often contain food vendors who sell fountain drinks to customers. These drinks may cause someone to fall if spilled onto the floor. During the winter months, visitors can trail in snow or sleet, causing wet floors. Public bathrooms in the shopping center should also be checked and cleaned regularly so that the sinks or toilets do not overflow. Shopping center managers must verify that maintenance crews mop up all spills or leaks quickly and complete any necessary repairs. If the floor is still damp from being cleaned, janitors can post ‘caution wet floor’ signs.
2. Broken Lifts
Multi-level shopping centers contain elevators and escalators for customers. Malfunctioning equipment may cause individuals to trip. If there are gaps between the elevator and the floor, this can cause individuals to trip or get stuck in the space and become injured. Escalators that suddenly start or stop may also cause riders to stumble and fall. Maintenance teams must quickly address broken lifts or block off the area to protect shopping center visitors from harm.
3. Poor Lighting
Inadequate lighting in shopping centers may cause individuals to trip and fall, especially in stairwells and windowless hallways. Dim lighting makes it harder to spot potential tripping hazards. Poor lighting is also dangerous outside of shopping centers, as it may make it hard to see dumpsters, debris, or curbs. If a shopping center visitor is injured due to a flickering or broken light bulb, they may be entitled to compensation.
4. Uneven Flooring
Cracked floor tiles or gaps between floorboards can cause injuries like broken bones, facial trauma, or concussions. If there is a transition from tile to carpet, the edges should be flush so customers do not catch their feet on the edge of the flooring surface. Along with indoor flooring, property owners also need to verify that outdoor walkways are safe and well-maintained. Sidewalks and parking lots should not have potholes or cracks. Flooring issues should be taken care of promptly, as property owners can be held accountable for accidents caused by cracked or uneven surfaces.
5. Obstructed Walkways
If a store leaves boxes of merchandise or racks in a shopping center hallway, it can cause customers to trip over these items. Dishware may fall off shelves and shatter, or clothing can fall off the racks and cause tripping hazards. Employees and store managers are responsible for maintaining their shop’s organization and helping enhance customer safety.
6. Damaged Furniture
Shopping centers often have public seating for customers, like couches, tables, and chairs. These items need to be inspected regularly to verify that there are not any loose screws or damaged components. Shopping center visitors may trip on broken furniture or fall off a broken stool or chair. If a customer falls due to furniture neglect, they may be eligible for compensation for their injury.
7. Disorganized Cords
Shopping centers require electrical cords to light up signs and power appliances. Some store owners may fail to organize these cords properly, causing customers to become tangled and fall. High-traffic areas like aisles and checkout lanes should be free from loose cables. Cord covers and cable clips help to keep wires out of the way, preventing trip and fall accidents.
What To Do After a Shopping Center Accident
If you or a loved one are injured in a shopping center due to uneven flooring, broken lifts, wet floors, or other causes, seek medical attention as soon as possible. This will allow you to document the costs related to your injury. Take pictures of the accident site to record what caused the fall. Photo evidence can also help determine if the property owner was negligent in preventing the risk.
Contacting a trip and fall lawyer for legal guidance promptly following the incident is beneficial. These professionals will help you negotiate with insurance adjusters to receive fair compensation for medical bills, time off work, or mental anguish due to the accident. They will answer any questions regarding the case and make sure to file all documents correctly and on time.
Hire a Trip and Fall Lawyer Today
The team at Philly Slip and Fall Guys can represent you or a loved one if you are injured in an accident at a shopping center. Seeking help from an attorney after your injury will allow you to focus on recovery while they take care of all the legal procedures. Schedule your free consultation with our office today.