When you shop at a retail store, you expect a safe environment. Unfortunately, accidents involving falling merchandise are more common than many realize. Items stacked too high or placed on unstable displays can cause serious injuries. Other dangerous conditions can also cause injury. If you’ve been hurt by falling merchandise, you may be wondering about your legal options. In many cases, you could have grounds for a personal injury claim. Below, we address some of the most important questions you might have.
What Are Connecticut Stores Required to Do to Keep Shoppers Safe?
Retailers in Connecticut have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for customers and anyone lawfully on the property. This includes:
- Conducting regular inspections to identify and address hazards.
- Properly stacking and storing merchandise to prevent items from falling.
- Training employees to recognize and correct dangerous conditions, such as unstable displays or top-heavy shelves.
- Responding promptly to any reported hazards.
If a store fails to meet these responsibilities and someone is injured as a result, the store may be considered negligent.
Property owners can also be held liable for dangerous conditions in common areas outside the leased retail space, such as shared entrances or walkways. Both the retailer and the property owner may be responsible for ensuring these areas are safe for visitors.
What Evidence Is Needed to Prove a Falling Merchandise Injury Claim?
The strength of your personal injury case often depends on the evidence you can provide. After an accident, consider the following steps:
- Photograph the Scene: Take pictures of the area, the fallen merchandise, any visible injuries, and the condition that caused the accident.
- Look for Surveillance Cameras: Security footage can be crucial in showing how the accident happened.
- Gather Witness Statements: If anyone saw the incident, ask for their contact information and a brief statement.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor. Medical records will link your injuries to the accident.
- Keep Documentation: Save receipts or other proof that you were a customer in the store at the time of the incident.
An experienced personal injury attorney can help collect and preserve evidence, work with experts, and build a strong case—especially when dealing with large retailers and their legal teams.
How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit in Connecticut?
Connecticut law sets a strict deadline, known as the statute of limitations, for personal injury claims. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline usually means losing your right to seek compensation, no matter how strong your case may be.
What Compensation Might Be Available?
If you’ve been injured by falling merchandise, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Other related damages
Don’t assume your injury was just “bad luck.” A knowledgeable Connecticut personal injury lawyer can evaluate your situation, explain your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. If you have questions or need guidance, contact Casper & de Toledo for a free consultation.
