As Claimant solicitors, we are frequently contacted by members of the public who have slipped and fallen on puddles or debris while shopping in the nation’s stores.
When considering whether such claims have merit, we must consider whether the store has acted properly and promptly in identifying and clearing spillages and breakages/broken glass etc.
Whilst customers can and should expect store employees to act quickly and efficiently to protect them from slipping and falling when visiting shops and supermarkets, imagine the horror of the poor employee who was faced with this scene, caused by Barbara Stange-Alvarez during the UK’s second lockdown:
(Click here to see the video clip)
Mind reported in November 2020 that mental health referrals were up by 15% at the time, and there was reportedly a large increase in the amount of alcohol purchased. Clearly, both combined in this incident and caused huge difficulties for the store and patrons alike.
Although Ms Stange-Alvarez did slip and fall and caused herself harm, we doubt there will be many Claimant’s solicitors who would be prepared to consider her case!
Her mental health issues, and the fact she had been unable to work due to lockdown, did affect the outcome of her Trial, although the Judge at the time commented that many people had been in the same position and had not reacted in such an extreme way.
Slips and trips in supermarkets, however, are normally caused by more straight forward incidents, such as items falling and smashing from shelves, or spillages from open containers. In such instances, stores are expected to have reasonable systems of inspection in place (to identify any hazards) and prompt cleaning of areas where issues have arisen.
Even when floors have been cleared and made safe, they also should ensure that customers are warned of the slippery nature of the floor by the erection of hazard signs. In the instance involving Ms Stange-Alvarez, we do not anticipate that such hazard signs would have been necessary!
If you have been involved in an accident that was not your fault whilst shopping in store, and you believe it was because the store has not acted promptly in clearing breakages and/or spillages please do contact us to discuss this.
Further reading
Accidents in Public Places – Oakwood Solicitors
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