Shopping malls are bustling hubs of commerce and social interaction that draw thousands of people daily, drawing their visitors' interest and business alike. Mall management companies must maintain safe environments within these malls while also fulfilling their responsibilities when accidents take place on-premises. Both accident victims and companies must understand their respective responsibilities in this matter.

Liability and Duty of Care at Premises

Shopping mall management firms are legally obligated to ensure a safe environment for visitors, as per premises liability principles. This includes regular maintenance checks, prompt repair of identified hazards, and adequate security measures, as part of their duty of care responsibilities.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Shopping mall management companies must regularly inspect the premises to detect any potential safety risks such as wet flooring, loose railings, or malfunctioning escalators that could compromise customer safety. Once identified, such hazards must be dealt with immediately for risks related to serious injuries and legal liability arising therein; documentation for maintenance should show this.

Install Appropriate Security Measures

Shopping mall management companies must implement robust security measures to protect patrons from criminal activities. This includes hiring security personnel, installing cameras, and providing well-lit parking lots. The company could be held liable if shopkeepers are assaulted due to inadequate measures. It's crucial for both legal requirements and a pleasant shopping experience.

Manage Weather-related Hazards

Shopping malls face weather-related hazards like snow, ice, and water accumulation, necessitating swift management by salting or shoveling walkways, placing warning signs, and ensuring clear entrances and exits. Inadequate management could lead to slip-and-fall injuries, resulting in legal liability for damages caused by such accidents.

Prepare for Emergency Scenarios and Respond Accordingly

Shopping mall management companies should establish an effective emergency plan, including clear plans with accessible exits, trained personnel, regular drills, and security measures. These plans should reduce injuries and liability exposure for management companies, ensuring swift response to accidents or incidents.

Communication and Signage

Effective communication can play an invaluable role in helping prevent accidents. Mall management companies should mark all hazards with appropriate signs. Construction areas should also be indicated with warning signs; wet floors need to be marked to alert shoppers. This way effective communication helps make people aware of possible dangers which in turn helps avoid accidents.

Legal Obligations and Documents

Shopping mall management companies must adhere to local, state, and federal regulations for property safety and maintenance. Maintaining detailed records of inspections, maintenance work, and incident reports can serve as proof of legal obligations and reduce liability exposure in case of lawsuits.

Response to Incidents

Shopping mall management companies are responsible for swiftly responding to incidents, offering medical aid, conducting a thorough investigation, and compiling an accident report detailing all circumstances, witness statements, and site conditions. This report serves as evidence in legal proceedings regarding the accident and is crucial for the safety of the mall's customers.

Insurance and Liability Coverage Covers

Shopping mall management companies must carry sufficient insurance in the form of general liability policies to cover potential claims that could arise from accidents at their properties. Such coverage protects both themselves as well as any victims they might inflict harm upon.

Shopping mall management companies must fulfill many tasks to ensure safety in their shopping centers, from maintenance and security inspections, emergency preparation, and communication responsibilities; all the way to creating an enjoyable shopping environment and decreasing potential liability in case of accidents. Contact us today at 816-221-0382 or send us an email on our Contact Page. Serving Kansas City, MO and KS as well as surrounding areas of Benton County and St. Louis.