As Rzeczpospolita reminds, in accordance with applicable regulations, the seller is required to provide appropriate conditions for safe purchase (Article 546 of the Civil Code). So if the accident was accompanied by incorrect arrangement of the goods, the customer is not obliged to cover the costs. In this situation, it is recommended to report the incident to the staff.
Store monitoring can be helpful if the seller demands payment. However, if the damage resulted from the fault of the client, e.g. through careless handling of the product, then according to art. 415 of the Civil Codethe customer can be called to compensate.
The situation is complicated when children are involved. They are responsible for the damage caused by minors under 13 years of age (Article 426 of the Civil Code). However, the responsibility of a parent or guardian may be excluded if he proves that the event took place despite proper care.
Did you break the jar in the store? Large networks often turn a blind eye
In practice, a lot depends on the policy of a given commercial facility. In large networks, you often turn a blind eye to minor losses, while in small shops any broken jar can be added to the customer's account.
However, if the goods are destroyed intentionally, the perpetrator may be held criminal liability. Depending on the value of the damaged product, this may be an offense (up to PLN 800) or criminal (over PLN 800), with the possibility of ruling various penalties – from a fine to deprivation of freedom.
Customers should be careful when shopping, and in the event of an accident – immediately inform the store staff.
Source: Rzeczpospolita
