New York shoppers may be all too aware of the dangers that could lurk on the supermarket floor, but it is still necessary to go out for groceries. This underlies the responsibility of store owners to provide a safe environment for their customers who come to buy much-needed goods. Because of the products involved and the fast flow of traffic at a grocery store, ongoing maintenance is necessary to avoid potentially dangerous accidents. Spills and debris on the floor can be disastrous for customers who step in the wrong place and fall as a result.
Businesses like grocery stores that welcome customers from the general public have a responsibility to provide well-maintained, safe premises. Nonetheless, the most common cause of insurance claims from supermarkets are slip and fall accidents. These accidents can be caused by papers dropped on the ground or a slippery spill of oil or juice. When customers fall in the supermarket, more than simple embarrassment or discomfort may be at stake. These kinds of injuries can lead to brain trauma, concussions, broken bones, injured joints and other serious, long-lasting damage.
Supermarkets use a variety of resources to maintain their premises. These can include hiring enough employees to keep the floor mopped, putting down slip-resistant mats or carpets and using appropriate floor treatments to maintain its safety. Some companies are even developing technological solutions to the problem. This type of software measures customer traffic in different areas of the store as well as the likelihood of accidents and other injuries.
When customers are injured as a result of a poorly maintained floor, they may be able to seek compensation from the store owner on the basis of premises liability. A personal injury lawyer may help injured people take action and seek repayment for their medical bills, lost wages and other damages.