A quick trip to the grocery store should never result in a serious injury, but unexpected hazards can turn an ordinary visit into a painful experience for many Atlanta shoppers. Wet floors, poorly stacked merchandise, and unsafe conditions often lead to severe harm, leaving victims with medical bills, lost wages, and long-term pain.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a store’s negligence, you may have the right to pursue legal action. Georgia law holds business owners responsible for maintaining safe premises; when they fail, injured shoppers can seek compensation. Here, our personal injury attorneys at Ashby Thelen Lowry explain.
Common Grocery Store Hazards That Cause Harm
Supermarkets have a duty to keep their stores free from preventable dangers, but some of the most frequent hazards include:
- Wet or Slippery Floors
Spilled liquids, leaking refrigeration units, and recently mopped floors create a high risk for falls. Stores must place warning signs when floors are wet and clean spills promptly.
- Poorly Stacked Merchandise
Overstocked shelves and improperly balanced products can fall onto shoppers, causing head, neck, and back injuries. Employees must ensure items are securely placed, and store aisles remain free of hazards.
- Obstructed Walkways
Boxes, carts, or misplaced items in aisles increase the chances of tripping. Grocery stores should keep aisles clear and free from clutter.
- Faulty Mats or Uneven Flooring
Torn mats or uneven tiles at store entrances and throughout the store can lead to trips and falls. Business owners must repair or replace worn flooring to prevent hazards.
When Are Grocery Stores Liable for Injuries?
Under Georgia premises liability law, grocery stores have a legal duty to keep their premises safe for customers.
To hold a store responsible for an injury, the following must be proven:
- The store had a duty to maintain safe conditions.
- The store knew—or should have known—about the hazard.
- The store failed to address the issue in a reasonable amount of time.
- The hazardous condition directly caused the injury.
For example, if a store employee was aware of a spill but failed to clean it up, the store could be held accountable for a shopper’s fall and injuries. Similarly, legal action may be an option if a store regularly stacks heavy items improperly and a customer is injured by falling merchandise.
What Compensation Can Injured Shoppers Pursue?
When a grocery store’s negligence causes harm, victims may seek financial recovery for:
- Medical Expenses – Including emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost Wages – Compensation for missed work due to injuries.
- Pain and Suffering – Covering physical pain, emotional distress, and long-term impact.
- Disability or Long-Term Care Needs – If injuries result in permanent impairment.
If you have suffered harm in a grocery store due to unsafe conditions, working with a skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal process. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, we fight for injured shoppers in Atlanta and throughout Georgia, helping them recover the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.