Donald Colvin, Esq

Understanding Premises Liability Before Holiday Shopping Season

As the holidays approach, bustling malls and busy stores become the norm. With the surge of shoppers comes a higher risk of accidents — from slippery floors to poorly maintained parking lots. Understanding premises liability before the holiday shopping season is crucial to know your rights if you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence.

At Colvin Accident Lawyers, we help clients navigate these cases with care and precision, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.

What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability law holds property owners and managers responsible for maintaining safe conditions. If they fail to fix hazards — like wet floors, broken steps, or inadequate lighting — and someone gets hurt, they may be legally liable.

Common premises liability claims include:

  • Slip and fall accidents

  • Parking lot or sidewalk injuries

  • Falling merchandise

  • Inadequate security incidents

  • Poorly lit or maintained stairways

Why Holiday Shopping Increases the Risk

During the holiday rush, stores often experience:

  • Crowded aisles and cluttered displays

  • Wet entryways from rain or snow

  • Temporary staff who may overlook safety issues

  • Increased deliveries creating tripping hazards

These conditions can lead to serious injuries. Property owners must anticipate higher foot traffic and take proactive safety measures.

What to Do After a Premises Liability Accident

If you’re injured while shopping:

  1. Report the incident immediately to the store manager.

  2. Document the scene — take photos or videos of hazards.

  3. Collect witness statements if possible.

  4. Seek medical care — even minor injuries can worsen.

  5. Consult an attorney — legal guidance can make a major difference in your claim.

How Colvin Accident Lawyers Can Help

Our experienced attorneys investigate every aspect of your accident — from store maintenance records to surveillance footage — to build a strong case. We aim to secure fair compensation for:

  • Medical bills

  • Lost wages

  • Pain and suffering

  • Ongoing rehabilitation

We understand that holiday injuries can disrupt your plans and your finances. That’s why we fight for justice while you focus on recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the time limit to file a premises liability claim?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. It’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

2. Do I need proof of negligence?
Yes. You must show that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to address it.

3. What if I was partially at fault?
You may still recover damages depending on your state’s comparative negligence laws. Your attorney can assess how this applies to your case.

4. Can I sue a store for falling merchandise?
Yes. Retailers must ensure displays are secure and safe. If a falling object causes injury, you may have a valid claim.

5. How much does it cost to hire Colvin Accident Lawyers?
We work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win your case.