Slip and Fall in a Grocery Store: What You Need to Know

Grocery store falls are one of the most common types of premises liability claims, and they often come down to one thing: how long the hazard was there before you fell.

Common grocery store hazards

Spilled products, water tracked from refrigeration units, wax buildup, stocking debris, and unmarked wet floors are frequent causes. Grocery stores have a duty to maintain safe premises and warn customers of known hazards.

What has to be proven

Generally, you need to show that the hazard existed, that the store knew or reasonably should have known about it, that the store failed to warn or fix it, and that this caused your injury. Surveillance video is often the single most important piece of evidence, because it shows exactly how long the hazard sat unaddressed.

Evidence to collect

• Photos of the hazard itself — the wet floor, spill, or debris
• Witness statements from other customers or employees
• An incident report from the store manager
• Surveillance video, requested as soon as possible
• Medical records documenting your injury

Act quickly on video evidence

Store surveillance systems typically overwrite footage within days to a few weeks. Requesting preservation of the video immediately after the fall — ideally in writing — is one of the most important things you can do for your claim.