Black Friday is supposed to be exciting — not dangerous. But with packed stores, rushing crowds, and slick parking lots, accidents happen more often than you think.

From slip-and-fall injuries to fights over merchandise, shoppers across Pennsylvania find themselves facing serious harm during one of the busiest shopping days of the year. If this happens to you, knowing your rights is key. Here’s what to do — and when you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim after a Black Friday accident.

1. Common Causes of Black Friday Injuries

The chaos of Black Friday can create unsafe conditions that put shoppers and employees at risk. Some of the most common causes include:

• Slip-and-fall accidents from wet floors or tripping hazards

• Overcrowding or trampling at store entrances

• Falling merchandise due to overstocked shelves

• Parking lot accidents in poorly managed areas

• Negligent security that fails to control crowds or prevent altercations

When a store or property owner fails to maintain safe conditions, they may be legally responsible for the injuries that result.

2. Can You File a Claim for a Black Friday Accident?

Yes — in many cases, you can. Pennsylvania law allows victims to pursue premises liability claims when a business’s negligence leads to injury.

For instance, if a store knew (or should have known) about unsafe crowd control practices or slippery floors but failed to address them, they could be held accountable. Similarly, parking lot accidents caused by poor lighting or inadequate signage may justify a claim against the property owner.

To succeed, your attorney must prove:

• The store or owner owed you a duty of care

• That duty was breached (negligence occurred)

• The negligence directly caused your injury

• You suffered measurable damages (medical bills, lost wages, etc.)

3. What to Do After a Black Friday Injury

If you’re injured while shopping, taking the right steps immediately can strengthen your case:

1. Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine.

2. Report the incident to the store manager or property owner.

3. Document everything — take photos of hazards, get witness names, and save your receipts or time-stamped proof of being there.

4. Avoid discussing fault or signing any store paperwork without speaking to an attorney first.

These details can make or break your claim later on.

4. Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Victims of Black Friday accidents may be eligible for compensation such as:

• Medical expenses and ongoing care

• Lost income or reduced earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress

• Property damage (like a broken phone or glasses)

Your attorney can help calculate the full value of your claim so you don’t settle for less than you deserve.

5. Why Legal Help Matters

Retailers often have legal teams ready to minimize liability. Having an experienced personal injury lawyer ensures your side of the story is represented.

At MHK Attorneys, we handle all aspects of your claim — from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies — so you can focus on recovery. Our goal is to make sure negligent parties are held accountable and that you’re fully compensated for your losses.

Conclusion: Protect Your Rights This Holiday Season

The excitement of holiday shopping shouldn’t come at the cost of your safety. If you were injured during a Black Friday rush or on retail property in Pennsylvania, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim.

The team at MHK Attorneys is here to help you understand your legal options and pursue the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation — and start the recovery process with trusted legal guidance.