Common Ways People Get Hurt in Florida Retail Stores (That You Might Not Expect)

When people imagine getting hurt while shopping, they often think of slipping on a wet floor. While that’s a common danger, Florida retail stores present a variety of risks.

Retail store injuries aren’t always predictable. Knowing your rights is the first step toward recovery. Port St. Lucie Personal Injury Lawyer can guide you through the settlement process so you can secure the compensation you need.

Falling Merchandise

In many big-box stores and warehouse-style retailers, products are stacked high to maximize space. While this may save floor space, it can also create a dangerous situation. Poorly secured items (heavy boxes, small appliances, and bulk goods) can tumble from overhead shelves, striking unsuspecting customers. These accidents can cause head injuries, concussions, fractures, and other forms of harm.

Poorly Placed Signs and Displays

Signs are meant to guide shoppers, but when they’re placed too low, extend into walkways, or are secured improperly, they can create trip or collision hazards. Likewise, promotional displays that jut into aisles or block sightlines can lead to falls or collisions. Even a small misstep can cause significant harm, especially for older adults or those with mobility concerns.

Wet or Slippery Floors
Yes, wet floors are the classic retail store hazard, but they’re not always caused by spills. In Florida, rainy weather can track water into entryways. Leaking refrigeration units or freshly mopped areas without proper warning signs can also make walking surfaces dangerous. Falls on hard tile or concrete flooring can result in broken bones, back injuries, or traumatic brain injuries.

Obstructed or Blocked Exits 

Most people only think about store exits during a fire drill, but in reality, blocked exits can be a major safety risk. A cluttered emergency exit or obstructed aisle can slow escape when individuals need to exit the building quickly and also create tripping hazards under normal conditions. Retailers are required to keep these pathways clear for a reason, blocked exits can cost precious seconds in an emergency situation.

If you’ve been hurt in a Florida retail store, your first priority should be getting medical attention. Document your injuries, take photos of the hazard if possible, and report the incident to store management.

In many cases, you may be entitled to compensation through a premises liability claim. Retailers have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. When they fail to do so, and that negligence causes your injury, you may be able to recover damages.

An experienced Port St. Lucie Personal Injury Lawyer can investigate your claim, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court. By pursuing a fair settlement or verdict, you can relieve the financial burden of medical bills and other costs so you can focus on healing.

Going to the doctor to have your retail store injury addressed? If you were hurt in a Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Stuart, or Vero Beach store, connect with the attorneys at Leifer & Ramirez. Legal professionals are available to protect your rights. Call 561-660-9421 to schedule a confidential consultation.