Crowded stores, additional traffic, parking lot incidents, and other hazards can make holiday shopping even more hectic. The holiday season is typically a busy time for retail stores, so it’s not surprising that accidents increase along with sales.
QBE North America shared claims data for accident years 2019-2022, highlighting the top three causes of insured losses:
- Third-party slip, trip, and fall injuries (32% of incurred losses)
- Motor vehicle accidents involving retail employees (21% of incurred losses)
- Employee sprain and strain injuries (9% of incurred losses)
The holiday shopping season presents unique safety risks. Read on for tips to prevent accidents as you navigate crowded stores and parking lots this holiday season.
Common Holiday Shopping Accident Risks
As stores work to keep popular items in stock, overcrowded aisles can lead to trips and falls. Additional store displays and long lines can create clutter. Wet floors are common due to winter weather. Many retailers are short-staffed and facing high turnover, which makes it harder to promptly clean up wet spots and other hazards.
Aggressive shoppers can cause injuries by rushing and pushing in lines or even physical altercations. Car break-ins or theft are more common during peak shopping seasons. There are other parking lot dangers to be aware of such as distracted drivers, increased traffic, and poor visibility due to early sunsets.
Staying Safe in Crowded Shores
Try shopping during off-peak hours whenever possible to avoid crowds. Stay mindful of your surroundings and be on the lookout for dangers such as spilled liquids and overcrowded areas. Try to maintain personal space so you can easily navigate the crowd without rushing or jostling others. Wear clothing that is easy to move in and non-slip footwear.
Carry your valuables such as wallets, purses, and phones securely. Consider switching to a wallet or purse designed for travel during peak season.
Parking Lot Safety
Park strategically under lights and closer to entrances for increased visibility and safety. Avoid distractions such as your phone when navigating the parking lot. Lock your vehicle doors, double check the windows, and hide any valuables, including shopping bags. Use the crosswalks marked for pedestrians and avoid walking behind reversing vehicles.
What to Do if an Accident Occurs
If you or a loved one is injured while holiday shopping, document the incident by taking photos and gathering witness information for any injuries. Notify the store manager or police, depending on the incident. Get immediate medical attention for even minor injuries to avoid complications.
If you suspect negligence by store owners or other parties, consult with a personal injury attorney to determine whether you have a case.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
