Can Property Owners Be Responsible for Falling Merchandise? | Hourigan Kluger & Quinn
Learn when a store or property owner may be responsible for injuries caused by falling merchandise in Pennsylvania.
Falling Merchandise Can Cause Serious Injuries
Stores, warehouses, and big-box retailers often stack merchandise on shelves, displays, and overhead storage areas. When items are not properly secured, they can fall and seriously injure customers or workers.
Falling merchandise injuries may involve heavy boxes, tools, appliances, construction materials, furniture, food products, or display items.
These incidents can happen when shelves are overloaded, products are stacked too high, displays are unstable, or employees fail to follow safe stocking procedures.
In Pennsylvania, businesses that invite customers onto their property generally have a duty to take reasonable steps to keep the premises safe. That includes inspecting for hazards and addressing unsafe conditions.
Important evidence may include photos of the display, surveillance video, incident reports, store policies, employee statements, stocking records, and prior complaints about the same area.
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Understanding Your Legal Rights After an Accident
Understanding your legal rights after being hurt by falling merchandise is important because the way items were stored, stacked, and inspected may determine whether the business is responsible.
Click here for more information and to review your options.