Glass From Broken Bottle Cut My Leg...

by Anonymous
(USA)

I was at a liquor store, purchasing a handle of rum. The cashier only single bagged the bottle, and as I picked it up, it broke through the bag. Glass went flying and it cut my leg resulting in 6 stitches.

Do I have any merit to a personal injury claim?

Disclaimer: Information provided in your response is not formal legal advice, it is generic legal information and is based on the very limited information given in your question. You should always get a formal case evaluation from a licensed attorney.

ANSWER for "Glass From Broken Bottle Cut My Leg...":

Anonymous (USA):

You do have a claim. The question is for what amount, and at what cost to you?

The first thing to do is make sure there is no infection. If you had stitches there is a good chance the doctor also prescribed antibiotics. If you hadn’t had a tetanus shot in the last few years you may have received one while being treated for your hand.

If you are concerned about scarring you may want to see a plastic surgeon.

Once you have done these things you can consider presenting the bills to the liquor store owner or manager for reimbursement. Or, you can make a formal demand for an additional amount for any of your out of pocket expenses, and possible lost wages. You can also consider demanding an additional amount for the pain and suffering you endured.

This all sounds good, but if you make these demands and the liquor store owner refuses to pay, you will then be left with considering filing a personal injury lawsuit.

Doing so can be a complicated matter. It’s not like going to Small Claims Court and suing over a debt. A Personal Injury case includes complicated evidence and often the testimony of the treating physicians. Doing so can also be prohibitively expensive.

The last consideration might be to consult with a Personal Injury Attorney. Most skilled Personal Injury Attorneys will not charge you for an initial office consultation. Once you have visited with one you will have a much better idea of what it will take to pursue your claim, and in the end, if it will be worth it.

Since laws change frequently and across jurisdictions you should get a personalized case evaluation from an attorney licensed in your state (if you haven't already). Find an experienced local attorney to give you a FREE personalized case review here.

Best of luck,

Law Guy

----------------