Suffering an injury in a grocery store can leave you questioning, “Can you sue a grocery store for injury?” The simple answer is yes, but specific conditions apply.

Keep reading for expert insights from our skilled Suffolk County slip-and-fall attorneys, then call (631) 543-7070 to schedule a free case consultation.

can you sue a grocery store for injury

Legal basis for suing a grocery store for injury

Grocery stores, like all businesses that invite the public onto their premises, have a legal obligation to ensure those premises are reasonably safe. This responsibility is part of what is known as “premises liability.” Under New York law, if a grocery store fails to maintain a safe environment and someone is injured, that person may have the right to sue for damages.

Common causes of injuries in grocery stores

Injuries in grocery stores can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Slip-and-falls: These are among the most common incidents due to wet floors, spilled products, or poorly maintained surfaces.
  • Falling objects: Customers can be injured by items falling from shelves if not properly stacked or secured.
  • Crowd-related injuries: During sales or special events, overcrowding can lead to injuries.
  • Parking lot accidents: Poorly maintained parking facilities can also be hazardous.

Establishing liability in grocery store injury cases

To successfully sue a grocery store for injury, you must demonstrate that the store was negligent in maintaining safe conditions. Key considerations include:

  • Proof of negligence: You need to show that the grocery store knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to correct it.
  • Causation: It must be clear that the store’s negligence caused the injury.

New York follows the rule of “comparative negligence,” which means that if you were partly at fault for the accident (e.g., not paying attention to where you were going), your compensation might be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Carner & DeVita: Advocates for injured shoppers

Carner & DeVita has extensive experience with personal injury cases, including those involving grocery store injuries. The firm can assist by:

  • Investigating the incident: Gathering evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and maintenance records.
  • Handling insurance negotiations: Dealing with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
  • Legal representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, Carner & DeVita can represent you in court, providing robust advocacy to seek the compensation you deserve.

What to do if you are injured in a grocery store

If you suffer an injury in a grocery store:

  1. Seek medical attention: Health comes first. Document your injuries with medical reports.
  2. Report the incident: Inform store management and ensure they make a report.
  3. Document everything: Take pictures of the hazard and your injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses.
  4. Contact a lawyer: Consult with Carner & DeVita to discuss your legal options.

Call us to understand and protect your rights

With the right legal guidance, you can navigate the complexities of your claim and strive for the compensation needed to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other related costs.

Injuries in a grocery store are not just accidents; they are often preventable incidents that occur due to negligence. Knowing your rights and when to seek legal help can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.