Most Common Black Friday Injuries

Most Common Black Friday Injuries

Black Friday is the biggest shopping day of the year. Most people know to expect a few things: long lines, big sales, and lots of people. You might even expect a squabble or two over the last coveted toy, but not serious injuries. Unfortunately, people can and do incur injuries on Black Friday every year. What are some of the most common offenders? Let’s find out:
 

• Parking Lot Injuries

Surprisingly, some of the most common Black Friday injuries occur when you’re entering the store or leaving with your purchases. Pedestrian accidents can be minor cuts and bruises, but they can also be more serious. In one case, a person was shot and killed in a dispute over a parking spot. Shoppers in search of the best deals are more likely to act aggressively, and focus more attention on scoring the latest toy than others around them. Always use extra caution in the parking lots and back away from anyone acting aggressively.
 

• Injuries from Crowding

It might seem odd that people can incur serious injuries from shopping, but watch a few videos online and you’ll see that there’s a stampede when store doors open. Given the fact that it only takes a handful of people to exert tons of pressure, it should come as no surprise that people can become trampled and sustain serious injuries every year. These stampede injuries can range from bumps and bruises to serious concussions and internal organ damage. To protect yourself, avoid being in the front of, or smack-dab in the middle, of a crowd. It’s better to miss out on a deal that to deal with the ramifications of a serious injury.
 

• Other Injuries in Store

There are several other ways you can incur injury once in the store. Consumers are climbing to grab higher stock off the shelves, which can lead to unstable heavy loads. You may also incur injuries from ramming carts, including smashed fingers, bumps, and bruises.
 

• Violent Crimes

Finally, violent crimes are rare, but occur somewhere in the nation every Black Friday. Brawls break out, shootings occur, and some may sustain stabbing injuries.
 
Black Friday brings out every shopper’s competitive spirit, and tensions can run high. In the heat of the moment, shoppers can lose themselves and act aggressively, even violently. Although rare, some people lose their lives in pursuit of a good deal.
 
If your holiday shopping brings you into Black Friday crowds, the best thing you can do is remain diligent and aware of your surroundings. Remember that tensions are running high, so be as respectful as possible to your fellow shoppers. Put distance between yourself and anyone who is acting aggressively, and call on store security if you ever feel unsafe. If you follow these tips and use basic common sense, you can enjoy a safe and injury-free holiday season. Reducing your risk of injury starts with a preventive approach.
 
If you are personally injured on Black Friday, it can be wise to contact an accident and injury attorney, like those at Kaufman Law.