Going to the supermarket is a multitasking marathon. Parking, maneuvering the trolley and keeping the kids amused are just the beginning. In the midst of this an accident may be the last thing on your mind – but they do happen.
Google the word “accidents” and your page will be littered with car parts from top to bottom. There isn’t an image of an accident involving Tesco, Sainsburys or Morrisons in sight. But accidents happen in supermarkets more often than you would think. And when they do, they can be serious.
But under Scottish Law, it is the supermarket’s duty to ensure their premises, including their car park, has a system in place to prevent accidents.
That being said, many supermarkets, large and small, fail to – usually because of poor management practice. This can result in a range of accidents occurring.
Unsurprisingly, slips are the most common type of accident. It’s part of supermarket life that spillages occur – floor tiles bloodied by ketchup is a certain hazard. But injuries resulting from spillages can be serious. If the supermarket has failed to put in place a proper system for managing spills then those injured may be entitled to negligence compensation.
Failing to follow proper health and safety guidelines can put the safety of staff and customers in danger. Your favourite local supermarket should be jumping at the chance to ensure you glide from bread to bacon safely.
Next to slips, trips are the second major cause of accidents in supermarkets. Trips occur both within the supermarket and outside it. Products, pallets and potholes can lead to staff and customers tripping and ultimately sustaining injuries. And they are just some of the high-risk objects that begin with the letter P!
Falling objects, faulty escalators and damaged lifts are other ways injuries occur. Again, the supermarket can be held responsible for injuries if they have failed to put a reliable system in place or if their car park grounds have not been adequately maintained.
Don’t settle for less than you are entitled to
Employees in a supermarket are often quick to help and are genuinely concerned for your wellbeing following an accident. However, when complaints are made, it can sometimes happen that the customer is offered points on their loyalty card or a discount on their next shop. The important message here is that although they feel they are being helpful, it’s best to contact an experienced personal injury solicitor to ask exactly what you are entitled to claim following an accident.
Steps to follow after an accident in a supermarket
Evidence of injuries is not enough to make a claim against a supermarket. You will also require evidence that your injuries were cause due to the negligence of the supermarket. If you have had an accident in a shop or supermarket follow these simple steps, incase you decide to claim for compensation:
- Report the accident to the store manager and fill out an accident report form.
- Get the names and addresses of any witnesses present.
- Seek medical attention immediately even if you feel fine. Tell the GP that you were involved in an accident, where and what happened, as well as the fact that the accident was recorded properly.
- Keep any medical and travel receipts as well as details of loss of earnings that were affected by the accident.
- If possible take a photograph of what caused your accident in the shop or supermarket.
Completing these steps will ensure that you have the best possible chance of gaining the correct amount of compensation for your injuries.
What to do next
Accidents in supermarkets can cause serious injuries. If the accident is because the supermarket has been negligent, because they failed to put an appropriate system in place, then you are well within your rights to make a claim for compensation. Remember, it’s important to choose solicitors with proven expertise in accidents that have taken place in supermarkets. Contact them to find out exactly what you are entitled to.