Sustaining an injury on the premises of a retailer, whether that is Costco, Sam’s Club, Target or Walmart can be a distressing experience. However, it is important to know what to do if you do get hurt while inside these stores and any other large retailers. The first step is protecting yourself and your rights by ensuring you document what happened.
Documenting the incident
Filing a report serves as an official record of the incident, and doing so right after the accident (only if you can; not if you need urgent medical attention) you create a documented account of what transpired.
The report will have a date, time and the circumstances surrounding the injury. This documentation could be critical in establishing liability if the situation ends up in a lawsuit.
How do you feel? Where is the pain located?
When you document the incident make sure that you stop for a moment, take a deep breath and evaluate how you feel physically and mentally. Then, on the report, describe where the pain is, how you feel or injured yourself and where pain is located, even if the pain is minor. If you are limping, for example, explain where it hurts and why it hurts to walk normally.
Internal investigation
Large retailers usually have protocols for handling accidents and injuries that happen on their premises.
Your report will likely trigger an internal investigation, which may include reviewing surveillance video footage, interviewing people who witnessed the injury and looking at the area where the injury happened.
Make sure you also take photos and videos of the area, if you can, as well as get information on potential witnesses.
The findings of this investigation, along with the report and other evidence can significantly bolster your case if you decide to pursue compensation for your injury, time off work, and other reasons.
Establishing a paper trail
Most large retailers have insurance companies who will manage and cover these situations. It is very important to have an attorney at this point because you do not want to speak with an insurance company because their goal is to save as much money as possible.
Their aim is not to compensate you fairly or even give you what you deserve. For that reason, get an attorney. as soon as possible.
Protecting your rights
In Mississippi, premise liability claims can be complex, and the window for filing a claim can be limited.
By reporting your injury promptly, getting an attorney, gathering as much evidence as possible to give to your attorney and ensuring you get the medical care you need and deserve, you could be on your way to receiving the compensation you are entitled to.