Shopping is one of the most common pastimes, and most customers assume that their shopping experience will be safe. However, if there are too many people in one location, this can lead to a dangerous situation that can lead to trampling injuries. Also, some structures can only bear so much weight before collapsing. If a property owner doesn't enforce overcrowding rules, you may deserve compensation.
After the Accident
When you have suffered from an injury as a result of an accident on a premise, you will want to seek treatment for your injuries as soon as possible. You will also want to gather contact information for any witnesses who observed the overcrowding.
When a Structure Collapses
If a structure collapses as a result of overcrowding, this will likely lead to an investigation into the event. Engineers might be able to determine what lead to the overcrowding, and this may provide evidence to support that the building owner was negligent. If a large number of individuals were injured, you might choose to enter a class action lawsuit. This will allow you to join several other plaintiffs in suing the defendant all at once.
Pushing and Shoving in a Crowded Room
Even on a normal day, overcrowding can lead to injuries. If too many individuals are in one area, they might bump into each other, and this can easily lead to a falling injury. However, if one of the individuals was behaving in a reckless manner that leads to your injury, you may wish to seek compensation from that individual as well.
Panic, Bottlenecks, and Trampling During a Fire
During a fire, overcrowding can lead to trampling. Excessive crowds can also make it more difficult for building occupants to exit the building promptly. This can lead to burn injuries and smoke inhalation injuries as those in the building aren't able to reach an exit. In extreme cases, a crowded room can lead to fatal injuries as a result of trampling or the fire itself. A lack of exits could also be grounds for a lawsuit.
Always speak with a personal injury attorney when you are involved in an accident. An attorney can help you access evidence that you may otherwise not have access to. For example, you may be able to obtain a copy of surveillance footage that could show the building overcrowded. Your attorney may also call upon an expert witness who can clarify the dangers present due to overcrowding, such as a structural engineer.