Every year after the intensity of Black Friday has passed, many personal injury lawyers see an increase in clients hurt by shopping-related accidents and mishaps. In the last several years alone, as Black Friday has become nothing short of a mad-dash starting on Thanksgiving Day, there have been numerous reports of serious injuries while shopping. Below are some important things to know on how to handle a Black Friday-related injury claim and how a personal injury lawyer can help.

Types of Injuries

Many injuries could occur on Black Friday, most of them stemming from the rush of the crowds and the negligence or carelessness of fellow shoppers. Among the most common are slips and falls, trauma to the head or body caused by boxes or shopping carts, and internal injuries from being trampled on.

Liability & Evidence

Determining liability can be difficult in a Black Friday injury as every case is going to be different. But by and large, stores must provide a reasonable amount of safety and security for shoppers. If a store is expecting large crowds and they don't implement certain safeguards, like additional security staff or crowd control measures, and a shopper gets injured, the store could be held accountable.

With any personal injury, strong evidence supporting your claim will only help you get the needed compensation. Pictures of the accident scene and injuries sustained, the testimony of eyewitnesses, and copies of medical records and police reports are just a few items that can substantiate your case.

Preventing Injuries

To prevent injuries while shopping on Black Friday, exercise care and caution at all times. If there are large crowds, stay at the back or off to the sides—away from other shoppers. Move through the aisles slowly but steadily. Leave children at home. Don't get into arguments or physical altercations with fellow shoppers; if things get heated, walk away. A decent bargain is no reason to risk your health.

Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury lawyer can help you better understand your legal options in a Black Friday injury claim. Attorneys work with their clients to build sound legal cases, and they will handle everything from filing paperwork and legal motions to investigating the scene of the accident, from communicating with others involved in the matter to negotiating with insurers or opposing counsel. A lawyer will ensure your rights are protected at every step.

If you're injured on Black Friday or at any other time during the year, you may be able to seek compensation. Let the personal injury lawyers at Henry & Williams P.C. guide you throughout the legal process. They have more than 60 years of combined experience serving the Howell County, MO, area in all aspects of personal injury claims, including wrongful deaths, workers' compensation issues, and medical malpractice cases. Call (417) 256-8133 or visit their website to arrange a free consultation.