• March 13, 2019
• CMZ Law
• no comments

How can I protect myself from Black Friday injuries?

Black Friday, the number one shopping day of the year, can draw thousands of frantic shoppers to malls and other popular retail stores.  As you hunt for a parking spot and fight your way through the holiday crowds, you should remain aware of the possibility of injury.  The following is a look at some of the most common Black Friday accidents and how you can protect yourself.

1. Parking lot car accidents:  According to Farmers Insurance, the number of parking lot accidents increases 25 percent on Black Friday, when compared to an average Friday.  Black Friday leads to crowded parking lots and parking chaos.  If you are injured in a parking lot accident this holiday season, consult with a personal injury attorney to determine your legal rights.  To protect yourself against parking lot accidents, pay close attention when walking or driving.  Take children by the hand at all times and remain on alert.
2. Store slip and falls:  Customers fall in stores every day, and the risk of slipping while shopping increases on Black Friday due to the crowds as well as the sheer number of shops many people will visit.  Slip, trip, and fall accidents can occur due to slick floors, misplaced items, and other dangerous conditions.  Slip and fall cases can be quite difficult to prove, so contact an attorney if you have been injured right away.  Guard against slip and falls by wearing appropriate footwear and taking your time while walking.
3. Shopper vs. shopper injuries:  Every year, you hear about shoppers being injured by other shoppers.  Black Friday shoppers can be injured by trampling, jostling, and physical altercations.  If another shopper injures you, be sure to report the incident and file a claim.  At times, the store will be at least partially liable for the incident.  Consider protecting yourself from injury by avoiding shopping during the most crowded times of day. Seek the assistance of a security officer if you feel threatened by another shopper or need help to resolve an altercation.

Black Friday should be a fun time for holiday shopping.  In the event your Black Friday turns disastrous, contact a personal injury lawyer in your area for legal assistance.