Grocery shopping is part of our everyday lives. You’ll find yourself at the supermarket to grocery shop, and then back again to grab anything you had forgotten about on your last trip. Spending time in the supermarket doesn’t feel dangerous, but in reality, there is a lot that can go wrong. Supermarket accidents occur often and can be extremely serious. As a result, it is important to know what to do in the event of an injury. Read on to learn more about supermarket accidents in New Jersey.
Common Causes of Supermarket Accidents
Supermarket accidents can occur for any number of reasons. But, the most common ways that injuries occur include:
- Slip and fall accidents due to spills in aisles or restrooms left unattended
- Unstable displays
- Defective automatic entrance and exit doors
- Loose produce or items falling from shelves
- Spoiled food left for unsuspecting customers to purchase or sample
- Trip and fall accidents, often due to poorly placed (or missing) floor mats
What to do After an Accident Occurs
If you are injured in an accident due to another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensation. To do so, you will need to fulfill the burden of proof. This means that you will have to prove that some form of negligence occurred to cause your accident. After an accident you should:
- Seek medical attention. Call 911, visit your doctor immediately, or go to an urgent care clinic. This will ensure that your injuries are treated while simultaneously providing you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. Ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documentation.
- Notify store management. The manager will write a store incident report on your behalf. If possible, obtain a copy of this report.
- Take pictures and videos of the accident, its aftermath, and any safety hazards that caused your accident.
- Gather witness contact information. If any bystanders saw your accident occur, you will want to obtain their contact information as they may be able to give witness testimonies later on.
- Contact a skilled personal injury attorney. It can be difficult to prove negligence. As a result, you will want a dedicated attorney on your side.
- Make sure to file your claim on time. In New Jersey, you will generally have two years to file a personal injury claim.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a supermarket accident, contact our firm today.
CONTACT OUR FIRM
If you have been the victim of the negligence of another in an accident, please contact my office as quickly as possible following the subject accident. It is important to consult with us early on so that we may begin the process of fighting for your rights in regard to any potential claim that you may have. The process is complicated and requires the expertise of a qualified New Jersey personal injury attorney. CONTACT US TODAY!