Florida Injury Lawyer Blog
Black Friday is here, and many are ready to jump into the holiday shopping season feet first. Unfortunately, many of us aren’t looking at the risks and the hazards that come with this joyous time of year.
Just take a look at US News, there have been employees killed, shoppers killed, property damaged, customers arrested and some serious injuries on this consumer holiday, which opens the busiest shopping month of the year.
Our premises liability lawyers understand that accidents caused by dangerous property conditions, either inside or outside a building, can result in serious, even fatal, injuries.
This year many shoppers will be out early to find big bargains on Black Friday. But to make the biggest shopping holiday of the year a little safer, customers and employees alike should consider a number of safety tips:
-Always go out with a plan. When you can, shop online to avoid the crowds and the physical risks.
-When you do go out, make sure that you never purchase more than you can carry.
-Always remember where you parked. Wandering the parking lot with an armful of merchandise is like a walking target for criminals. Only park in well-lit areas and have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. Check the back seat and around the car before getting in.
-If you will be shopping with small children, make sure everyone has a meeting spot to return back to in case you get separated. Small children should have contact information posted within their clothing — never visible to passing strangers.
-Alert a security guard or store employee if you see an unattended bag or package.
-Have your purse close to your body and/or carry your wallet in your front pocket. Don’t tempt thieves by placing your purse in the shopping cart.
-Be nice to employees. And remember – they may be the only thing between you and that last holiday “it” toy in the back.
-Skip busy shopping days unless you have to shop during these times. When more bargain-hunters are out, the risk of being injured or robbed increases.
-Stay out of narrow and overcrowded aisles and exercise caution if boxes or merchandise are stacked precariously on shelves.
-Shop early. Retailers have been pushing holiday promotions earlier in recent years as a way to compete for sales and get consumers’ attention before they have run through their budgets.
We wish everyone a safe and happy Black Friday and remind all shoppers to keep their eye on the prize — and to stay safe while doing it. Remember, there’s always Cyber Monday!
Call Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Attorneys for the Injured for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights. 1-800-283-2900.
More Blog Entries:
Florida Work Accidents Claim 209 Lives in 2012, Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, October 17, 2013
“The Crash Reel” Sheds Light of Traumatic Brain Injuries, Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, August 5, 2013
