Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents in Grocery Stores
Grocery stores are an essential part of our daily lives. Some people need to visit the grocery store at least once per week, while some make the trip multiple times a week. Rarely do we think much about a trip to the grocery store. However, what might seem like a quick visit to your local grocery store for milk or vegetables can quickly turn into an unfortunate and unexpected accident. Slip and fall accidents are common in grocery stores, and while most of these accidents cause minor injuries, some may result in severe injuries like broken bones, dislocations, and even traumatic brain injuries. Understanding the most common causes of grocery store slip and fall accidents can help you stay safe. It can also help you protect your legal rights if an injury occurs.
The following are some of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents in grocery stores;
- Slippery or Wet Floors
Entranceways may be slippery or wet due to customers coming in from rain, snow, or muddy parking lots. Spills from liquids, refrigeration units, or products can also make the floors wet or slippery. These wet flows can be hazardous without proper mats, regular cleaning, or warning signs. One simple misstep can result in serious harm.
- Poor Lighting
Poor lighting is another common cause of slip-and-fall accidents in grocery stores. Dim or flickering lights can make it hard for customers to see hazards in their path. For instance, a customer might not be able to see a puddle of water in a shadowy aisle until it is too late.
- Uneven or Damaged Flooring
Uneven surfaces, cracks in the floor, damaged tiles, or torn carpets can easily cause a customer to trip and fall. Often, these issues are found in high-traffic areas of grocery stores and catch shoppers unaware, leading to painful falls and unexpected injuries.
- Obstacles in Aisles
Obstacles in grocery stores, such as boxes, carts, or misplaced products, can pose significant tripping hazards for unsuspecting shoppers. Shoppers who are busy looking for supplies might not notice these obstacles in time, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.
Common Injuries Resulting from Grocery Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents in grocery stores can cause many types of injuries, including the following;
- Head injuries
- Fractures
- Cuts and bruises
- Dislocations
- Back injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
Importance of Identifying the Cause of a Grocery Slip and Fall Accident
In Kentucky, grocery owners are legally obligated to maintain reasonably safe premises. When a property owner fails to do so, injured customers may have the right to pursue damages. Identifying what caused your accident is essential for determining if it could have been prevented, or in other words, if the grocery owner was negligent. Reviewing the circumstances of your accident with a skilled slip and fall attorney can help clarify whether the grocery store failed to act with reasonable care. For instance, an attorney can assess whether the owner or employees knew about the hazard and failed to address it. Uncovering such facts can support your right to pursue compensation.
Contact a London and Southeast Kentucky Slip & Fall Attorney
If you slipped and fell in a grocery store in Kentucky and suffered injuries, contact our skilled London and Southeast Kentucky slip & fall attorneys at Cessna & George Law Firm at 606-770-5400 or online for help determining if the condition that caused your accident was preventable and help pursuing the compensation you deserve.
