Grocery store hazards to watch out for during COVID-19
Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak issued a statewide stay-at-home order on April 1, 2020 to help stop the spread of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a result, schools, casinos, and non-essential businesses will remain closed at least until April 30. That could change, however.
In the meantime, many Las Vegas residents still have to go out to grocery stores to get food and other essential items. While most people will get what they need safely, there are several hazards to watch out for when visiting grocery stores.
If you were hurt while visiting an essential business, get medical help and speak to an experienced Las Vegas personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Violent crimes could increase
The massive job layoffs and high demand for essential goods could lead to an increase in violent crime. This could potentially include:
- Violent robberies in parking lots and parking garages
- An increase in violent hate crimes
- In-store disputes that can escalate
The owners and managers of essential businesses throughout Las Vegas are responsible for ensuring the safety of patrons. This includes providing safety measures inside the stores, as well as in the parking lots and garages. This should include:
- Adequate lighting
- Security personnel
- Surveillance cameras
Violent crimes often lead to serious physical injuries, as well as mental and emotional trauma. If you or a loved one was attacked while on essential business property, you have the right to pursue a negligent security claim.
Slip, trip, and fall hazards
Slip, trip, and fall accidents in grocery stores often come without warning. It can be difficult for customers to spot certain hazards, especially when their attention is on finding the items they need. Falls can lead to head injuries, broken bones, spinal injuries, and soft-tissue injuries.
Grocery store management and personnel are responsible for ensuring that all aisles and walkways are free of:
- Spilled liquids and water
- Uneven surfaces or large cracks
- Fallen items and other debris left by customers or employees
If you were hurt in a fall, it's important that you take these actions:
- Report the hazard to store management
- Take pictures of the hazard that led to your fall
- Not the time, date, and location of the fall
- Get medical help
- Consult with an attorney
In order to pursue a successful slip and fall claim against the store, the fall hazard must have:
- Already been reported, but not addressed in a timely manner
- Been there long enough for management or store personnel to know about it
- Been caused by an employee
Experienced personal injury lawyer serving Las Vegas
The attorneys at Lasso Injury Law LLC have spent nearly a decade fighting for the rights of injured people throughout Las Vegas and Clark County.
We urge everyone to do their best to stay safe and healthy during these difficult times. If you were injured due to someone else's negligent or reckless behavior, we can help you get the compensation you need while you recover from your injuries.
Contact us online or call us at (702) 625-8777 to find out how we can help you. Our consultations are confidential and free of charge.
