If you take the do-it-yourself approach to auto care and maintenance, a trip to AutoZone or similar autocrats stores may be a regular occurrence for you. If not, you still may decide to head out to your local parts shop for the occasional part or automotive accessory.
While there, you may end up encountering several in-store hazards that have the potential to result in a slip and fall accident.
If you’re involved in a slip and fall accident while shopping at AutoZone or a similar store, you may end up with several different debilitating injuries. Some of the most common injuries associated with slip and fall accidents include broken bones and muscle sprains and strains.
Often, these injuries can cause long-lasting pain complaints and require you to seek long term medical care. These costs, combined with missed pay if you’re unable to work, can take a financial toll on you as an accident victim.
Potential Hazards at an Auto Parts Store
In a store that keeps thousands of parts in stock, there is the potential for several safety concerns to present themselves. While shopping you may end up running into a hazard like:
- Coolant, oil, power steering fluid and other spilled liquids
- Built up grease on walkways from vehicle parts
- Tools and automotive accessories left on floors
- Partially blocked aisles from large in-store displays and advertisements
- Concrete flooring that is cracked or uneven
- Excessive buildup of oil and other fluid in the store’s parking lot
These common automotive store safety issues could lead to a slip and fall accident if you encounter them while shopping at an auto parts store.
Slip and Fall Accidents
In the New Mexico personal injury case, Iles v. AutoZone, Mr. Iles sustained a serious injury to his shoulder after falling in his local AutoZone. After he paid for his purchases, Mr. Iles turned around to leave when he stepped on an empty display cart and fell to the floor.
In his fall, he tore his rotator cuff and was unable to continue working as a plumber. At trial, the court determined that AutoZone was 99 percent liable for Mr. Iles’ accident and calculated his damages to be $253,500 in total.
The Guidance Needed after a Slip and Fall Accident
When you’re involved in a slip and fall accident at any nationwide retailer, like AutoZone, you may decide to file a personal injury lawsuit.
If successful in your suit, you might be awarded damages for accident-related expenses like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
As the accident victim, you have the burden of proving fault in your slip and fall case. In order to give your case the fair representation it deserves,contact a personal injury attorney for guidance.
With the assistance of an attorney, you might be able to ultimately hold the store liable for your accident and recover the compensation you deserve.
*The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Autozone, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
Source: case taken from ca10.washburnlaw.edu/cases/2001/03/00-2006.htm
