How to Prove Negligence in a Slip-and-Fall Case at a Rochester Grocery Store

If you suffered injuries after slipping and falling in a Rochester, NY, grocery store, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses and other related costs. However, proving negligence in a slip-and-fall case can be challenging. Working with an experienced slip and fall lawyer in Rochester can help you build a strong premises liability case and maximize your potential compensation.

Steps to Prove Negligence in a Grocery Store Slip-and-Fall Case

1. Document the Hazardous Conditions That Caused Your Fall

If you slip and fall in a grocery store, act quickly to document the hazardous conditions before store employees clean up the scene. Use your smartphone to take clear photographs and videos of the area where you fell, including any:

• Wet or slippery floors
• Spilled liquids
• Uneven surfaces
• Lack of warning signs

Your slip and fall lawyer in Rochester may also request surveillance footage from the grocery store to further support your claim.

2. Gather Evidence of the Store’s Negligence

To hold the grocery store liable for your injuries, you must establish that the store’s management or employees knew or should have known about the hazardous conditions and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm.

Critical evidence to support your claim includes:

• Lack of Warning Signs: If no “Wet Floor” signs or other hazard warnings were present, this can indicate negligence.
• Incident Reports: Request a copy of any report filed by store employees after your fall.
• Witness Testimonies: If other customers or employees witnessed the accident, their statements could strengthen your case.
• Employee Interviews: Your attorney may interview grocery store employees to uncover any prior knowledge of the hazard.

To successfully prove negligence, you and your attorney must demonstrate that:

1. The grocery store had a duty to maintain safe premises.
2. The store breached this duty by failing to address or warn about the hazard.
3. The breach directly led to your slip-and-fall accident.
4. You suffered actual damages as a result.

3. Demonstrate the Impact of Your Injuries

Beyond proving negligence, you must establish the extent of your damages. Medical records and injury documentation are critical to demonstrating the financial and physical impact of your accident.

Your slip and fall lawyer in Rochester can help you quantify both economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Medical expenses (emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation)
• Lost wages from missed work
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

Work with a Slip and Fall Lawyer in Rochester to Strengthen Your Case

In New York, the statute of limitations for slip-and-fall claims is three years, so it is essential to take legal action promptly. The experienced attorneys at Cantor, Wolff, Nicastro & Hall LLC are ready to fight for your rights and help you prove negligence in your slip-and-fall case.

Contact us today at 716-848-8000 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.