Fall rain, wet leaves and the first cold snaps mark the start of slip-and-fall season in grocery stores. Falls are the most frequent general liability claim for grocers, and with older shoppers, injuries can be serious.
Where falls happen
- Entrances, where rain and snow are tracked in.
- Produce areas, where grapes, lettuce and water from misters end up on the floor.
- Dairy and frozen aisles with condensation and leaking cases.
- Spills from broken bottles and jars.
- Parking lots with potholes, curbs and ice.
The power of a floor log
In most slip-and-fall cases, the injured customer must show the store knew or should have known about the hazard. A timed log showing regular aisle sweeps — combined with security video — can prove that a spill appeared only minutes before a fall. Many claims are decided on that evidence.
A simple prevention program
- Assign zones and sweep schedules, and document each sweep.
- Use absorbent entrance mats and replace them when saturated.
- Post wet-floor signs immediately and clean spills right away.
- Fix leaking cases and roof leaks promptly.
- Keep the parking lot well lit and repaired.
When someone falls
Help the customer and call for medical help if needed. Photograph the area, preserve video before your system overwrites it, collect witness names and complete an incident report. Don't admit fault or promise payment, and report the incident to your agent promptly.
Coverage check
Confirm your general liability limits and umbrella are adequate, and that medical payments coverage is included. Paying a small medical bill quickly can prevent a lawsuit.
Good housekeeping and good records are your best defense this season.
This material is for general information only. Coverage depends on the actual policy language, and availability varies by carrier.