Seattle Big Box Store Injury Lawyer
Big box stores offer a wide selection of consumer goods at often unbeatable prices. That is why such stores are quite popular in the Seattle area. But unfortunately, when you have thousands of shoppers pouring through the aisles of these stores on a daily basis, there are bound to be some accidents that result in serious injuries.
Not every accident is legally the responsibility of a retailer. But when the owner’s negligence has played a role, then the injured victims have a legal right to seek compensation. So if you have been hurt while shopping at a major retailer and would like to consult with a Seattle big box store injury lawyer, the Emerald Law Group is here to help.
Big Box Retailers Often Fail to Enforce Their Own Safety Procedures
Big box stores like Wal-Mart and Target understand that they have a legal responsibility to keep their premises safe for customers. This is why these companies usually have detailed policies for their managers and employees explaining various safety procedures in detail. Of course, just because there is a procedure does not mean it is always followed.
For example, a policy may require a manager to inspect all the store’s aisles at least once every 30 minutes to identify potential spills that could lead to a customer falling. If that policy is not followed–or the manager simply fails to identify a clear spill–the store could be on the hook if a customer sustains an injury. It may not even be an intentional act. Perhaps there was a miscommunication and a manager simply forgot to do a check.
Spilled liquids are just one potential safety hazard that big box stores need to be aware of. Some other common issues that can lead to customer injuries include:
- improperly stocked merchandise that can fall from a shelf;
- construction or renovation equipment left in an area accessible to customers;
- defective shopping carts;
- overcrowding during big sales events like “Black Friday”;
- poor lighting in stairways, bathrooms, and parking lots; and
- snow and ice in parking lots or store entrances following a storm.
In many cases there may be multiple parties who are legally at-fault for an accident at a big box store. In addition to the owner of the store, its management company or third-party contractors may also be responsible for any injuries caused by their negligence. This is yet another reason it is important to work with a personal injury attorney experienced in pursuing claims based on injuries at big box stores.
Contact Emerald Law Today
Big box retailers–and their insurance companies–understand there will always be some accidents on their premises. Indeed, it is common for these retailers and insurers to offer a quick settlement to an accident victim to make any potential lawsuit go away. But you should never sign away your potential right to sue without first speaking to a qualified Seattle injury in big box store lawyer. Contact the Emerald Law Group today to schedule an initial consultation.
