Deer Park Personal Injury Lawyers

Personal Injury Attorneys for Premises Liability Claims and More in Deer Park, Illinois

People who have suffered injuries because of other people's negligence can take steps to recover compensation through personal injury claims. Premises liability is a fundamental aspect of personal injury law, and property owners may be held responsible for negligence that led to injuries affecting visitors or customers. When injuries occur in retail stores, shoppers need to understand their legal options. If you have suffered an injury in a department store and are unsure about what to do, contact Lucas Law. Our lawyers will advise you on how to protect your rights, and we will work with you to recover compensation that will address your injuries and financial losses.

Common Causes of Retail Store Injuries

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Some of the most frequent injuries in retail stores involve slip and fall accidents. Spills, leaks, or slippery substances on floors often cause these accidents. For instance, a spilled drink or a leak from a refrigeration unit can create a hazardous condition that shoppers may not expect. Retailers are responsible for maintaining clean and safe aisles, and failure to do so can lead to serious injuries, such as fractures, sprains, or head trauma.

Dangerous Stairways

Unsafe stairways are another serious concern in retail environments. If stairs lack proper handrails, have uneven steps, or are poorly lit, the risk of falling increases dramatically. Shoppers using these stairways may not be aware of the potential hazards until it is too late. Injuries from falls down staircases can be severe, and they may include brain trauma, broken bones, or even permanent disabilities.

Falling Merchandise

Retail stores often have tall shelves stocked with products, and this can pose a danger to shoppers. Collapsing shelves or falling merchandise can result in injuries ranging from minor bruises to severe trauma, including concussions and spinal cord injuries. Stores have a duty to ensure that merchandise is properly secured and that shelves are routinely inspected for stability. When they neglect this responsibility, they put customers at risk.

Poor Lighting

In and around stores, bad lighting can make hazards harder to see, and this may lead to accidents in which customers suffer injuries. For instance, a customer may not see an obstacle or a damaged floor if an aisle is poorly lit, and they may trip and fall. Retailers are required to maintain proper lighting to minimize these dangers. When accidents occur due to negligence in lighting, customers may have valid claims for compensation to address their injuries.

Negligent Security

Without proper security in and around retail stores and shopping centers, assaults or altercations may occur that cause customers to suffer injuries. If a store fails to provide adequate security measures, such as surveillance cameras or staff members who are trained to address safety concerns, an unsafe shopping environment may lead to injuries. In some cases, a lack of security may allow for criminal behavior, leaving customers vulnerable to robberies or other violent crimes. In these situations, victims may be entitled to compensation because the store failed in its duty to protect customers' safety.

Time Sensitivity in Premises Liability Cases

It is critical to understand the time limits that may apply in premises liability cases. Stores may try to use strategies to downplay the severity of injuries or cover up dangerous conditions. For example, a store might quickly clean up a spill and lie about what happened to investigators or insurance companies. They may do so in an attempt to avoid liability for injuries suffered by customers.

After an accident, it is important to document the scene as soon as possible. Take photographs of the hazardous conditions, note the names of any witnesses, and receive medical treatment for your injuries. Gathering this evidence promptly can strengthen your case.

Contact Our Deer Park, IL Premises Liability Attorneys

If you are injured in a retail store, you will need to understand your legal options. Your health and well-being deserve the utmost attention, and the legal team at Lucas Law can work to ensure that you will not have to bear the burden of the store's negligence. If you suffered injuries in a retail store or on someone else's property, or if you were injured in any other situation where someone else was responsible, call us at 847-381-8700 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.