We all need to go grocery shopping and though some consider it a dreaded chore, they probably do not consider it a dangerous one. But each year, thousands of people are hurt from accidents in a grocery store, and one out of five falls are considered serious. What do you do if you have an accident in a supermarket? Who is at fault if you fall or slip and suffer an injury? You should contact a slip and fall attorney as soon as possible to review your case.
Grocery stores, like any place of business, have a responsibility to their customers to provide a safe place for them to visit. The difference between grocery stores and other places like offices or retail clothing stores is the type of merchandise that they have and the high volume of traffic. If you have been injured while in a grocery store, as the claimant, you will be required to provide proof of negligence on the part of the owner or management of the store that resulted in your injury to pursue compensation for your injuries.
What Are The Most Common Kinds of Slips and Falls in a Grocery Store?
Slips and falls opportunities are everywhere. Grocery stores often are responsible for your injuries if:
- There are wet floors or spills that are not marked with caution signs or cleaned up properly and in a timely manner.
- General housekeeping practices are not performed and obstacles such as pallets, floor mats, and other trip hazards increase the likelihood of a slip and fall.
- Obstructions in the aisles, congested areas, and clutter make it difficult for patrons to safely navigate through the store.
- Icy or wet entrances that are unmarked and unmaintained.
- Holes in the floor, protruding objects, or general ill repair that can cause a slip or fall.
- Loose produce or unstable displays may cause injuries.
- Poor lighting or other instances where vision may be obstructed.
What Are Typical Injuries Caused From Slips and Falls in Grocery Store?
If someone slips and falls in a grocery store, their injury can vary in severity depending on the type and cause of the fall, the health of the victim, and the amount of impact. These injuries can be life-altering and can be devastating to your future. According to the CDC, 95% of hip fractures are the result of a fall, and falls are the major cause of traumatic brain injuries. Other injuries include other broken bones such as arms, shoulders, pelvis, or legs. Concussions, back, and spinal cord injuries, and damage to knee joints and ligaments. The elderly are more susceptible to slips and falls, and those with mobility issues, are taking medication, or are having trouble with stability are more likely to suffer from slips and falls.
Is There a Statute of Limitations on Filing a Claim for Slip and Fall Injuries?
In some states, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim for compensation for your slip and fall injury in a grocery store. But if you have an accident in a grocery store, the sooner you take action, the easier it will be to establish fault. To build your case, your personal injury attorney will help you gather information such as medical records, video surveillance footage, store accident reports, cell phone videos, and witness statements. The longer you wait, the more likely that some of that information may become unavailable.
If you are injured, it is traumatic enough. You need to focus on your recovery from your injuries. Your personal injury lawyer can help. Never speak to the grocery store management or the insurance company that represents them without your attorney present. Never sign any documents until you have discussed them fully with an attorney. The grocery store and their insurance company are looking out for their best interest, not yours.
How Much Compensation Do You Get for a Slip and Fall Injury in a Grocery Store?
There is no hard and fast number for injuries in a grocery store. The compensation depends on the amount of responsibility you have for the accident.
Of course, the compensation also depends on the severity of your injuries, the length of your recovery, and the general circumstances of your fall. If the slip and fall was found to be due to negligence of the grocery store, you will be compensated for medical expenses, including surgeries, prescriptions, doctor visits, physical therapy, and any other medical expense you incur due to your injury. You can also be compensated for the loss of income if you are unable to work due to your injuries. Pain and suffering settlements are paid in addition, as compensation for the physical and mental pain and anguish you endure as a result of your injuries.
If you have suffered a slip and fall injury in a grocery store, contact a personal injury attorney at DP Injury Attorneys. They are experienced in dealing with slips and falls accidents. Do not wait. Get started on your case today.
