A force majeure situation when you accidentally smash an unpaid product in a store can happen to anyone. And how many stories can remember those whose children inadvertently brushed goods from the bottom shelf to the floor. But the question is: do you have to pay for the broken item? Let's figure it out.
Consider a situation where you inadvertently break a bottle of alcohol. It would seem that your fault here is obvious. But if you look, this situation was preceded by several factors. Let's say a bottle broke when you took another, and the whole row of alcohol was unstable. In this case, the claims should be made against the merchandiser who has carelessly placed the goods on the shelf. Or in general to the operation of a store that did not take into account the standards of the retail enterprise.
All outlets operate in accordance with GOST 51773-2001 “Retail trade. Classification of enterprises . The documents even indicate at what distance the showcases should be located, what aisle should be between them. If you damaged the product because you turned badly in a narrow space, you don't owe the store anything.
In a disputable situation, ask the store manager for a complaint book and write your claims. And also write a letter addressed to the store director, in which you clearly describe the situation, attach the testimony of witnesses (if any). Store employees have no right to demand payment from you for damaged goods until they prove that it was your fault. And this can only be proven in court.
If the security of the store begins to threaten you, remind them about Article 203 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. The employees of the PSC have no right to detain you, search and use force. Only law enforcement officers can detain and draw up a protocol.
