Trip And Fall in Shopping Centers And Malls in Philadelphia

Shopping Centers and Malls Slip and Fall Guide

Shopping centers and malls are designed to make your shopping experience easier. In the biggest of malls, such as King of Prussia, hundreds of stores can be found all in the same location, offering a wide variety of choices to the shoppers that visit.

Sadly, for some shoppers, life doesn’t become easier after they get to the mall. There are hidden dangers that cause slip and fall accidents every day. While some people are able to get up and dust themselves off, many are not so lucky.

Shopping malls present unique hazards that can lead to slip and fall injuries. Each year, thousands of accident victims suffer harm in these commercial spaces. When fall accidents occur due to neglect, victims have the right to pursue compensation. A slip and fall lawyer can help you understand your options after an injury.

Understanding Mall Slip and Fall Accidents

Fall accidents in shopping malls happen more often than most people realize. These incidents can result in serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Fall injury lawyers see cases ranging from minor sprains to life-changing trauma. When a property owner’s failure to maintain safe conditions causes harm, they must be held accountable.

Slip and fall incidents at shopping malls often leave victims with mounting medical bills. Many people do not realize they can recover compensation for their losses. An experienced slip and fall attorney understands how to build strong fall claims against negligent property owners. Chain store locations and mall management companies have insurance to cover these situations.

Common Causes Of Trip & Falls In Malls

Mall owners, store owners, employees, and maintenance companies all owe those who are visiting mall property a duty of care. This means that they have a legal obligation to do everything within their power to ensure that visitors to their property are kept safe from foreseeable accidents.

When this duty of care is breached, the party responsible can be held liable for their negligence. Fall accident attorneys frequently handle cases involving preventable hazards. Premises liability law requires property owners to address known dangers promptly. When they fail to do so, injured party members can file fall lawsuits to seek justice. An experienced attorney will investigate how the accident occurred and who bears responsibility.

There are many ways in which negligence can result in a slip and fall accident:

Uneven And Cracked Pavement

In Philadelphia, the property owner is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk. Specifically, Section 11-505 states that:

“The sidewalks of the all public streets, and the roadways and sidewalks of all private streets, shall be graded, paved, and kept in repair at the expense of the owners of the land fronting thereon,”

If the sidewalk is broken or uneven, and this defect causes someone to fall and become injured, the property owner may be held liable.

Cracked pavement represents one of the most common dangerous conditions in shopping malls. Fall accidents caused by uneven surfaces can result in broken bones and other trauma. A fall lawyer can prove that the property owner knew about the hazard but failed to fix it. Store records and maintenance logs often reveal a history of complaints.

Snow And Ice

Snow and ice are one of the leading causes of slip and fall accidents. Property owners and maintenance companies are responsible for removing these hazards from the sidewalks and parking lots of a shopping center in a timely manner.

Winter weather creates particular challenges for shopping malls throughout the Philadelphia area. Philadelphia slip and fall cases involving ice are common during cold months. Property owner’s failure to salt walkways can lead to multiple fall injuries. Chain store locations must coordinate with mall management to ensure all areas are treated.

Unsecured Electrical Cords

Electrical cords are a common sight in malls. Employees use them regularly to power vacuums, floor polishers, light displays, and more. When distracted by all of the window displays and commotion, it’s easy for a shopper to not notice the cord. 

Slip and fall attorneys often see cases where temporary hazards cause fall accidents. Staff members should warn customers about any temporary obstacles in walkways. Fall accident leads to liability when basic safety precautions are ignored. Many fall accident victims trip over cords that should have been secured or covered.

Steps

There are hundreds of steps inside of any mall – both inside of the stores and in the common hallway. Broken boards, inadequate lighting, and defective handrails can all lead to a shopper losing their balance and falling – sometimes down several flights of stairs. Trip and fall accidents on stairs can result in very serious injuries such as broken bones or traumatic brain injury.

Stairway fall injuries can be particularly severe and life-altering. Fall case investigations often reveal that handrails were loose or missing entirely. Experienced slip and fall lawyers know how to document these dangerous conditions. Proper lighting and maintenance could prevent many of these tragic incidents at shopping malls.

Spilled Liquids

Every day, drinks and products containing liquids spill onto the floor by accident. It can be very difficult for someone to see that liquid on certain surfaces, but easy to fall when they step in it. It is the responsibility of the store managers and employees to make sure that any liquids spilled are cleaned up as quickly as possible, and that caution signs are placed around the wet area.

Food court areas in shopping malls see frequent spills throughout the day. Chain store employees must respond quickly to these hazards. When they delay cleanup, fall accidents occur that could have been prevented. A slip and fall lawyer will examine whether staff followed proper protocols after being notified.

Escalator Malfunctions

It might seem easy to step onto an escalator and take a ride between levels. But escalators are machines and every machine has the potential to malfunction.

Mechanical failures at shopping malls can cause catastrophic slip and fall injuries. Regular maintenance records become critical evidence in these slip and fall cases. A fall attorney will request inspection reports to prove negligence. Many chain store and mall owners try to hide evidence of poor maintenance practices.

Fallen Merchandise

Clothing, displays, toys, and other items can all fall and create a potential hazard in the aisles for shoppers. The bottom line is, that if you are seriously injured after a slip and fall, no matter what the cause, you may be able to seek compensation from the party responsible.

Fall injuries from merchandise happen regularly in retail environments. Shopping malls and chain store locations must train staff to keep aisles clear. Fall accident attorneys can prove that inadequate staffing contributed to unsafe conditions. Insurance companies often try to blame shoppers for not watching where they walk.

Liability in Shopping Mall Fall Cases

Premises liability law governs slip and fall cases at shopping malls. Property owners have a duty to inspect their premises regularly for hazards. When dangerous conditions exist, they must repair them or warn visitors appropriately. A property owner’s failure to act creates legal liability for resulting fall injuries.

Multiple parties may share responsibility for slip and fall accidents at shopping malls. The mall management company, individual chain store owners, and maintenance contractors can all be liable. Your slip and fall lawyer will identify every responsible party to maximize your compensation. Fall case outcomes depend on thorough investigation and evidence gathering.

Taking Steps To Protect Yourself

Anyone who has fallen should take the following steps to protect themselves – even if they don’t suspect that they are seriously injured at the time:

1. Ask For Help From Security

Seek assistance from a security guard. Let them know that you fell, show them where you fell, and what it was that caused your fall. Make sure that they file a report and be sure to obtain a copy of that report.

Documentation becomes critical when you later need to recover compensation for your slip and fall injuries. Security reports provide official records of how the accident occurred. Fall lawyer professionals know that shopping malls sometimes “lose” these reports later. Get your copy immediately after the incident.

2. Ask For Medical Care

Request medical attention or have a friend take you to the doctor immediately.While it may seem like your injuries aren’t severe, some injuries may not become apparent for days or even weeks after the accident.

You must seek medical attention right away after any fall accident. Some serious injuries do not show symptoms initially. Medical bills and treatment records directly link your injuries to the incident. Insurance companies will question your claim if you delay getting care.

Medical expenses from slip and fall incidents can accumulate rapidly. Emergency room visits, diagnostic tests, and specialist appointments all add up quickly. Future medical bills for ongoing treatment must also be considered in your claim. An experienced attorney ensures all medical costs are included in your demand.

3. Take Photographs Of The Scene

If you are able, take pictures of the location where you fell from multiple angles. Keep digital copies of the pictures on file as well as printed copies in your personal records.

Photographic evidence strengthens Philadelphia slip and fall cases significantly. Pictures show the dangerous conditions that caused your fall injuries. Fall attorney professionals use these images to prove the property owner’s failure to maintain safe premises. Shopping malls and chain store locations often clean up hazards quickly after incidents.

4. Obtain Witness Contact Information

If anyone witnessed your accident, be sure to obtain their contact information. Ask them if they would be willing to write a statement detailing what they saw.

Witness testimony provides powerful support for slip and fall cases. Other shoppers can confirm how the accident occurred and what hazards existed. Slip and fall attorneys will interview these witnesses to build your case. Many fall accident victims regret not collecting this information at the scene.

5. Check For Security Cameras

It is very important that you request copies of any surveillance video immediately. Often this video “disappears” before the victim can get a copy. It may be wise to retain the services of a personal injury attorney who can ensure that this does not happen.

Shopping malls have extensive camera systems throughout their properties. Video footage can prove exactly how your fall accident happened. Chain store managers may claim they cannot find recordings if you wait too long. A slip and fall lawyer can send legal requests that preserve this evidence.

6. Keep Copies Of All Medical Records And Bills

Keep multiple copies of all medical records, bills, and out of pocket expenses. Detailed financial records support your claim for lost wages and other damages. Medical bills demonstrate the economic impact of your slip and fall injuries. Your fall injury lawyer needs complete documentation to calculate what you deserve. Future medical bills and ongoing care costs must also be projected accurately.

The Mall’s Insurance Company Called – Should I Talk To Them?

You should not talk to any insurance adjusters before you consult with a personal injury attorney. Any statements you make to an adjuster will be recorded, and these statements can be used to deny your claim.

An experienced attorney can guide you through the process of making a statement and let you know which questions you do, or do not, need to answer.

Insurance companies protect chain store and mall owner interests, not yours. They train adjusters to get accident victims to make damaging statements. Never discuss your slip and fall case without legal representation present. A fall lawyer knows what information to share and what to withhold.

Recorded statements can destroy otherwise strong fall claims against negligent parties. Insurance companies twist words to minimize payouts to fall accident victims. Your slip and fall attorney will handle all communications with insurers. This protection allows you to focus on recovery while your legal team fights for justice.

Compensation Available in Mall Fall Cases

Accident victims can recover compensation for multiple types of damages after slip and fall incidents. Economic losses include medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages cover pain, suffering, and emotional trauma. An experienced slip and fall lawyer calculates the full value of your fall case.

Medical costs often represent the largest portion of slip and fall settlements. Hospital bills, rehabilitation, and medications add up quickly after serious injuries. Lost wages compensate for time missed from work during recovery. Some injured party members cannot return to their previous employment at all.

Future medical bills must be considered when seeking a fair settlement. Ongoing treatment, therapy, and possible surgeries all factor into your compensation. Fall attorney professionals work with medical experts to project long-term care needs. Shopping malls and chain store owners should pay for all current and future losses.

Working with a Philadelphia Slip and Fall Law Firm

A qualified law firm offers free consultation services to evaluate your potential slip and fall case. During this initial meeting, attorneys review how the accident occurred and assess liability. Philadelphia slip and fall lawyers explain your rights and the legal process ahead. You can ask questions about fall lawsuits and what to expect.

Many slip and fall lawyers work on a contingency fee basis for their clients. This arrangement means you pay nothing unless your attorney wins your case. Fall accident attorneys only collect fees from your settlement or verdict amount. This system allows all accident victims to access quality legal representation regardless of finances.

Why You Need Experienced Legal Help

Premises liability law cases involving shopping malls require specialized knowledge and experience. Property owner defendants have powerful legal teams defending them. Without an experienced attorney, you face significant disadvantages in seeking fair settlement amounts. Slip and fall attorneys level the playing field for individual victims.

Chain store corporations and shopping malls fight fall claims aggressively to protect their reputations. They hire investigators to find reasons to deny your claim entirely. Your legal team must gather strong evidence of the property owner’s failure to maintain safe conditions. Fall lawyer professionals know how to counter defense tactics effectively.

Store records, maintenance logs, and incident reports often reveal patterns of negligence. An experienced slip and fall attorney knows how to obtain these documents through legal process. Many shopping malls and chain store locations try to hide evidence of previous complaints. Your lawyer will fight to uncover all relevant information.

If I File A Lawsuit Will I Need To Go To Court?

While many slip and fall cases can be settled out of court during mediation, it is possible that your case may have to go to trial. Our team of experienced, passionate, and knowledgeable lawyers will fight tirelessly for your rights if this is how things proceed.

Most fall case matters resolve through negotiation and settlement discussions. Insurance companies often agree to fair settlement amounts when faced with strong evidence. However, some defendants refuse reasonable offers, making trial necessary. Your fall attorney should be prepared to litigate your slip and fall case if needed.

How Long Do I Have To Decide If I Want To File?

While it is important to always file as soon as possible, victims do have two years from the date of the accident to file a slip and fall lawsuit. If the complaint is not filed during this period of time, the victim may lose the right to seek compensation for their injuries.

The statute of limitations for Philadelphia slip and fall cases requires prompt action. Waiting too long can result in losing your right to recover compensation entirely. Evidence deteriorates and witnesses become harder to locate over time. Contact a slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible after your fall accident.

FAQs: Trips and Falls in Shopping Centers and Malls in Philadelphia

What causes trip and fall accidents in Philadelphia shopping centers and malls?

Trip and fall accidents in Philadelphia shopping centers and malls are often caused by uneven flooring, loose tiles, cracked sidewalks, raised thresholds, damaged carpets, and poorly maintained entryways. Outdoor areas may present additional hazards such as broken pavement, potholes, and inadequate lighting. High foot traffic can make these dangers harder to notice, especially during busy shopping hours or seasonal events.

Who is responsible for trip and fall injuries in shopping centers or malls?

Responsibility for trip and fall injuries in Philadelphia shopping centers or malls may involve multiple parties. Depending on the location of the hazard, liability may fall on the property owner, mall operator, individual store tenant, or a property management company. Lease agreements often divide maintenance responsibilities, making it important to determine who controlled the area where the fall occurred.

Can I file a claim if I tripped outside a store but within the mall property?

Yes, you may be able to file a claim if you tripped in a common area outside a store but within a Philadelphia mall or shopping center. Common areas such as walkways, corridors, and parking areas are usually maintained by the property owner or management company. To succeed, it generally must be shown that the responsible party knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to address it.

What evidence is important in a shopping center trip and fall case?

Key evidence in a Philadelphia shopping center trip and fall case includes photos or videos of the hazard, the surrounding area, and lighting conditions. Surveillance footage, maintenance and inspection records, and incident reports can help establish how long the hazard existed. Witness statements and medical records are also important in showing how the accident happened and the extent of the injuries.

How long do I have to file a trip and fall lawsuit in Pennsylvania?

Most trip and fall cases in Pennsylvania, including those occurring in Philadelphia shopping centers or malls, are subject to a two-year statute of limitations. If the shopping center or mall is owned by a government entity, shorter notice deadlines may apply. Taking action early helps preserve evidence and ensures compliance with all legal requirements.

Get Help from Our Law Firm Today

If you suffered slip and fall injuries at a shopping mall or chain store, contact our law firm for a free consultation. Our legal team has extensive experience handling fall lawsuits against major retailers and property management companies. We know how to investigate dangerous conditions and prove negligence by property owners.

Our attorneys work to recover compensation that covers all your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. We handle slip and fall cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win. Call today to speak with an experienced slip and fall lawyer about your rights at 215-268-6898. Do not let shopping malls or chain store owners avoid responsibility for your fall injuries.