5 Ways People Get Hurt in TN Retail Stores (That You Might Not Expect)
Retail stores are places we visit for everything from groceries and clothes to electronics and home goods. But a quick shopping trip can quickly turn dangerous when store owners or employees fail to maintain safe conditions. While slippery surfaces are a known hazard, there are several lesser-known ways people can get injured in retail stores.
Nashville personal injury lawyers are familiar with the surprising causes of injuries in retail environments. They can use their expertise and experience to connect you with financial relief if you’ve been hurt.
#1 Falling Merchandise
Many stores stack merchandise on high shelves to maximize space. While this might be efficient for inventory, it creates serious risks for shoppers. Poorly secured boxes or items can fall unexpectedly, causing injuries ranging from cuts and bruises to concussions or even fractures. Employees may not always check that shelves are properly stocked and stable, putting customers directly in harm’s way.
#2 Poorly Placed Signs and Displays
Stores often use signs and promotional displays to grab your attention. But when these items are placed in walking paths or obscure your view of steps or obstacles, they become hazards. Shoppers might trip over signs, bump into display stands, or fail to see a sudden drop in flooring. These accidents can lead to sprained ankles, knee injuries, or worse.
#3 Wet or Recently Cleaned Floors Without Warning
Wet floors are one of the most common causes of retail injuries, and they’re almost always preventable. Whether from recent mopping, leaking refrigeration units, or spills that aren’t cleaned up in a timely manner, wet floors should be clearly marked with warning signs. When those signs are missing or not visible, customers are at risk of painful slip and fall injuries.
#4 Obstructed or Blocked Emergency Exits
In an emergency, every second counts. Emergency exits must remain accessible at all times. Unfortunately, some stores use them as storage space or accidentally block them with inventory. If a fire or other emergency arises, a blocked exit can lead to trampling, smoke inhalation, or being trapped, all of which can result in serious injury or even loss of life.
#5 Inadequate Lighting or Unmarked Steps
Dim lighting in corners of large stores, especially in stairwells or changing rooms, can hide potential risks. Similarly, unmarked steps, especially small changes in floor level, can trip up unsuspecting customers. These injuries are often sudden and severe, especially for older adults.
If you were hurt in a Tennessee retail store, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Store owners have a legal responsibility to maintain a safe environment. When they fail to do so and it results in your injury, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim. Talk to a Nashville personal injury lawyer about how to receive monetary relief for your injury-related expenses.
How will you pursue justice after a preventable retail accident? Have a conversation with the lawyers at Calhoun Law, PLC. A settlement could be closer than you think. Contact us today and schedule a free consultation.
