Black Friday kicks off the holiday shopping season, with crowds jockeying for position and grabbing attractive bargains. All that activity might lead to personal injury, so you should be prepared. Here are a few ways to avoid injuries, and steps to take if someone negligent hurts you.

Personal Injury While Shopping on Black Friday

What Are Some Common Injuries to Look Out For?

Driving to the mall means a risk of auto accidents. Neck and back pain due to whiplash often occur after rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic. Slip and fall accidents are also common with people rushing to grab merchandise or getting off and on escalators. Shoppers may suffer ankle, leg, hip, arm, or head injuries.

Who Is Liable for Your Personal Injury?

A driver who strikes you in a rear-end auto accident may be liable for negligently following too closely. If you slip and fall in a parking lot or a store, the mall or store owner may be responsible for conditions including poor lighting or wet and slippery walkways. A shopper who pushes you might be legally responsible for your injuries if you fall.

What Evidence Do You Need?

Photos and witness statements of the conditions that caused the injury and property damage help prove personal injury claims. Records and bills showing medical care and treatment help prove a claim’s value, as well as pain and suffering. Attorneys and insurance claims adjusters always want such information.

How Can I Prevent Injuries While Shopping?

Wearing comfortable low-heeled shoes and walking rather than running through the store will help prevent injuries. Keep an eye out for spills and wet or uneven walkways, and hold onto the handrails when getting on and off escalators or stairs.

Personal injury can occur while shopping at any time, but especially during the busy holiday season. In Honolulu, HI, shoppers who get hurt seek advice and representation from Charles H. Brower Law Corporation. More than 40 years of experience with injuries including from auto accidents and defective products give these attorneys the ability to evaluate claims, negotiate beneficial settlements, and win trials. Trust them with your injury claims. Contact them online now or call (808) 526-2688 for a consultation appointment.