Holiday Disputes to Watch For in Philly—And How to Protect Yourself
Andrew Sciolla

The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and slowing down. Yet old tensions or new disputes can surface—on crowded roads, in busy stores, or even at a neighbor’s party—sometimes leading to unexpected legal issues. Here are common holiday-season problems in Greater Philadelphia and what to do next.

 

Neighborhood & Property-Guest Issues (Premises Liability)

Big celebrations can mean extra foot traffic, wet entryways, and icy steps. If a guest slips on an unmarked hazard or a child is hurt by a defective decoration, you may be dealing with a premises liability claim.
What to do now:

  • Photograph the condition (ice, broken railing, poor lighting).

  • Ask for incident reports if it happened at a business.

  • Get medical care and keep all records.

  • Avoid “apology” texts that could be read as admitting fault.
    Speaking with a lawyer early helps preserve evidence and timing.

Holiday Travel Crashes (Motor Vehicle Accidents)

Between parties, shopping, and winter weather, collisions often spike in December and January. Even “minor” crashes can lead to serious soft-tissue injuries or delayed symptoms.
What to do now:

  • Call police and get the report number.

  • Photograph vehicles, the scene, and road conditions.

  • Seek medical care promptly—then follow treatment plans.

  • Don’t give recorded statements to the other driver’s insurer before you understand your rights.

Retail Rush Problems: Falls, Security Encounters & Civil Rights

Stores are packed and temp staff are stretched. Slippery floors, unstable displays, or parking-lot hazards cause injuries. In the rush, some customers are mistakenly detained for suspected shoplifting, raising civil-rights questions.
What to do now:

  • Report the incident to store management and ask that video be preserved.

  • If detained or searched, note names/titles of employees and any police badge numbers.

  • Keep receipts and witness contact info.

Parties, Alcohol & Criminal Charges (DUI, Assault, Disorderly Conduct)

House parties and bar crawls sometimes end with police involvement—DUI stops, fights, or noise complaints. One bad decision can follow you for years.
What to do now:

  • Use your right to remain silent; be polite and ask for an attorney.

  • Do not discuss the incident on social media.

  • Write down everything you remember as soon as you’re safe.

Holiday Pay, Overtime & Wage Issues

Seasonal hours and last-minute shifts can lead to unpaid overtime or break violations. If your paycheck doesn’t reflect your hours, you may have a wage-violation claim.
What to do now:

  • Save schedules, timecards, and pay stubs.

  • Keep texts/emails about shift changes.

  • Note your actual start/stop times.

Why Call Your PHL Lawyer First

We’re a Philadelphia-based firm built on justice, integrity, and results, with nearly two decades of experience. We offer risk-free initial consultations and make it easy to reach a lawyer directly. Offices in Center City (100 S. Broad St., Suite 1910) and Warminster (720 Johnsville Blvd., Suite 850). Call (267) 328-5245.

Quick Checklist to Keep Handy

  • Get medical care and document everything (photos, names, reports).

  • Preserve receipts, texts, timesheets, and camera footage where possible.

  • Avoid posting about the incident online.

  • Speak with a lawyer before talking to insurers or signing anything.

You don’t have to face disputes alone. If something goes wrong this season, contact the Sciolla Law Firm for a free case evaluation.