Grocery shopping, a seemingly routine task, can unexpectedly become life-changing in an instant. Wet floors, unstable shelves, and cluttered aisles make slip-and-fall accidents in grocery stores more common than you might think. The National Safety Council reports that falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths.
Although it is natural to feel embarrassed and brush off a slip and fall, it is important to remember that there is a real risk of serious injuries.
The unexpected risks of “minor” falls
You might feel fine immediately after a fall, only to experience pain and discomfort minutes or even hours later. The severity of an injury you experience after a slip and fall can depend on how you fall:
- Avoiding a fall may lead you to contort your body awkwardly or land on your arm or hip, potentially causing muscle strains, sprains, or broken bones.
- Hitting your head on hard surfaces may result in a concussion, skull fracture or traumatic brain injury.
- Falling backward could lead to landing on your back causing a spinal cord injury that may lead to mobility issues.
These injuries often require medical attention, leading to costly bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain. It’s essential not to overlook any fall, no matter how minor it may seem.
You have a right to seek compensation
Property owners in Oregon have a legal duty to maintain a safe environment to ensure customers and visitors do not suffer harm. If a grocery store failed to address known hazards that caused you to fall, they could be held liable for your injuries. Compensation could cover damages such as medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.
However, recovering compensation after an accident is usually not straightforward. Additionally, establishments that are the subject of personal injury lawsuits sometimes downplay incidents to avoid paying or at least reduce their liability.
But oftentimes, grocery slips and fall accidents are preventable. If you are injured because of a grocery store’s negligence, compensation can help cover the costs you incurred and support your recovery. An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the process and advocate for your rights.