Anywhere a large number of people congregate or go, there is an increased risk of hazards, accidents and injuries. In general, the owners or occupants of buildings, shopping centers, malls, stores, and other commercial establishments have a duty to insure that the premises are reasonably safe, and to warn of known dangers or  unsafe conditions. Businesses, shopping centers, and other commercial establishments may be held responsible if they have not implemented safety checks and procedures to discover dangers to their customers or employees.  Liability can arise from many circumstances. For example, liability can arise from foreign substances on floors; building and structural defects; improperly designed entrances and walkways; architectural, engineering, contractor or subcontractor errors; unsafe building materials; building code violations; unsafe heating, cooling, refrigerant and electrical equipment; and unsafe stairs, balconies, escalators, railing, and elevators. Liability can also occur from a failure to properly maintain a building and it's contents. For example, light bulbs may not have been replaced in dark areas or floors may have been improperly waxed causing poor footing. Liability can also arise from a failure to provide security;  a failure to properly provide for emergencies such as fires, dangerous gases, criminal activity, and explosions; or a failure to properly secure unsafe products, toxic cleaning materials, or other hazards accessible to children. Liability may occur from a failure to properly hire, train or supervise employees who cause an injury.

Though common sense and safe practices can help eliminate many hazards, needless injuries occur  in unsafe buildings, shopping centers, and commercial establishments. Always determine the cause of the accident. The following are a few important legal, factual and evidentiary matters to consider when evaluating a claim.

• When, where, and under what circumstances did the accident occur?

• Did the accident occur inside or outside the building?

• Was the injured person a customer or employee?

• Was the accident properly investigated?

• Did the accident involve a fall?

• Did the accident involve an electrical, heating, or other mechanical defect?

• Was the accident caused by poor design, construction or maintenance?

• Was the accident caused by improper security or emergency response?

• Did the injury involve criminal conduct?

• Did the accident involve employee misconduct?

• Did the injured person give a statement or sign any documents?

• Do you know the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all witnesses?

• Did the injury or illness involve poor sanitation?

• Did the injury involve a fixture or product?

• Did the injury involve a hazardous or toxic substance?

• Was proper first aid available? Was there a proper emergency response?

It is important that an experienced legal team evaluate your accident. Complex legal, factual, and evidentiary issues may be involved. If you, a friend, or a loved have sustained an injury, you should take immediate steps to protect your or their interest. Do not compromise your rights by making statements to the press, insurance investigators, potential defendants, their representatives, and do not sign anything. Consider the suggestions in our accident guide, and call us immediately. We are here to help. At Larry King, P.C., we recognize the unique issues pertaining to your claim. You can call us at (757) 595-8100 seven days a week, 24 hours a day, everyday of the year. We also offer a free legal-infoline service, and you can now contact us on this web site by using the following Personal Injury Contact form. We are committed to doing the extra things it takes to help our clients.