Ever slip while walking down a slope in a shopping mall? This woman fractured a toe when a sign in Macy's tumbled down from a table. This Westchester Bookstore employee slipped and fell in a NY Barnes & Noble, due to sloppy mopping. Similarly, many people ask personal injury lawyers what to do if one got hurt while shopping or otherwise passing through a public place, like a shop, mall, or restaurant. We would like to dispel some myths. (1) Don't feign an injury. Bogus claims will only get you into legal trouble, if not now, at some point in the future. A video exposing a phony injury may severely damage one's professional and personal reputation. (2) Don't stand there wondering what to do. Get medical help, if you think you may need it. Call police and rescue, as necessary. Have the phone numbers ready for a friend or family member to meet you, and a proven NY injury lawyer. (3) Don't assume that someone else is keeping track. Keep meticulous records of payment and medical care. Note injuries, doctor's reports and scans. (4) Maximize your rights. Store owners, property owners, building supervisors, elevator operators and others all bear a responsibility to keep their premises in a safe condition. A wet floor, slippery step, loose banister, or hole in floor can all provide basis for an injury lawsuit, if negligence can be established. So use your rights and be prepared. Check out our NY injury guide.
