No person should have to fear for their safety while they are shopping, dining or enjoying themselves. Business and property owners in the state of Washington have an obligation to keep their premises safe and secure for all legal visitors. However, store owners or employees will sometimes neglect to care for their businesses, directly resulting in dangerous conditions capable of injuring customers. When store owners fail to maintain their premises or warn customers about potential hazards, they can be held liable for any injuries that occur.
Shopper injured
In another state, a woman filed a lawsuit after she allegedly slipped and fell due to dangerous conditions in a grocery store. The woman said she was shopping for ice cream in the store and encountered a puddle near the freezers. According to allegations, the woman slipped on the puddle, fell and suffered very serious injuries.
Damages awarded
The lawsuit said the plaintiff suffered a broken kneecap and had to undergo two surgeries. Allegedly, the woman was in a brace for several months due to her injuries. She claimed she couldn’t drive and needed help bathing and doing basic chores. During the trial, it was reportedly discovered that the grocery store had recurring issues with leaking freezers dating back several years. The jury sided with the plaintiff and awarded her nearly $1.3 million in damages.
Every year, thousands of people across the country are injured in these types of incidents. Victims in Washington who have suffered personal injury due to the negligence of another party have the right to contact a trusted attorney and pursue legal action. A lawsuit, if successful, could result in monetary damages to help victims with medical expenses and replace lost wages.