Finding yourself injured at a big box store, like Home Depot may entitle you to compensation. Every company has a legal obligation and responsibility to keep customers safe. These businesses are liable when safety standards are not met and customers are injured. However, legal responsibilities set forth by Home Depot to keep customers safe do not always mean injuries will result in a successful claim.
Large businesses are well equipped with experienced attorneys who are familiar with defending lawsuits. If you or someone you know has been injured at a big box store like Home Depot, your best course of action is to consult with a Philadelphia premises liability attorney.
Avoid Discussing the Injury
Victims should know that everything they say and do after an injury at a Home Depot, or any big box store for that matter, can significantly influence the settlement they receive. A victim is well served by avoiding any contact as it pertains to the injury with anyone that includes, family, friends, insurance agencies, or store employees until a professional has been consulted.
Prove Home Depot Was At Fault
After an injury at a big box store, like Home Depot in Philadelphia, the victim must be able to prove that the defendant was at fault for their injuries. It is highly encouraged that the victim gathers as much evidence as possible even though any decisions regarding the condition that is responsible for the accident is considered dangerous and whether Home Depot should have known can vary due to factors out of their control. After any type of accident in a store it is a good idea to document everything that happened immediately as it is still fresh in mind:
- Take photos of the area
- Note and take photos of warning signs, floor conditions, product conditions and/or aisles within the vicinity, and any other elements that may have contributed to the accident
- Obtain the names and contact details of witnesses
- Write down the facts as soon as the opportunity presents itself
Victims will not receive any help from employees of Home Depot with the matter. It is the victim’s job to take matters into their own hands whenever they collect any information necessary to prove Home Depot was at fault for their injuries.
Complete an Incident Report
Sometimes it is required to fill out an accident or injury report form or even contact a claims department at Home Depot in order to officially give notice to the business that an accident occurred. If filing the notice immediately after the accident, saying something like, “I am fine,” or “It isn’t a big deal” could very well jeopardize the claim. Just give the facts of the accident. Victims have the ability to contact an attorney before taking any further actions as well.
Every big box store accident is unique under particular circumstances here is a list of the most common causes of injuries that could indicate Home Depot or another big box store’s fault:
- Wet floors
- Uneven floors
- Broken shelves
- Dangerous items hanging from shelves or ceilings
- Floor lights
- Loose rugs or carpeting
- Ice build-up in parking lots close to the store entrance
Most, if not all, big box stores like Home Depot are well versed in defending injury claims and have a reputation for taking an aggressive stance in proving the store’s innocence. Keeping in mind that this in no way means that big box stores fight dirty or bend legal rules, it simply means that they are well prepared and practiced at defending lawsuits.
Call Kwartler Manus for Representation Today
Since victims may be faced with an aggressive defense to the lawsuit, it is crucial to consult and hire a lawyer prior to taking legal action. There are a substantial number of attorneys who offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee. Don’t succumb to injuries sustained in a big box store accident, seek proper representation to ensure financial compensation is within reach. Call our office at 267-457-5570 to schedule a consultation with a Philadelphia premises liability attorney today.