Grocery shopping is part of everyday life for Floridians, but when a quick stop at Publix ends with a serious fall, that routine errand can become a painful and expensive ordeal. One of the most common causes of injuries in supermarkets like Publix? Wet floors.
At VCM Law Group, we’ve helped countless clients across Florida recover compensation after preventable slip and fall accidents. If you were injured at a Publix due to a wet floor, it’s important to understand what causes these hazards and what your legal rights are.
Why Are Wet Floors So Common at Publix?
Slip and falls often happen in the blink of an eye, but they usually have clear causes that stem from poor maintenance or negligence. Some of the most frequent reasons floors become wet at Publix include:
Spills in the Produce Aisle
Loose grapes, dropped fruits, and misting systems can make the produce section especially slippery. Employees are required to regularly inspect and clean up these hazards, but lapses often occur.
Leaking Refrigeration Units
Faulty coolers and freezers, especially those that store dairy, meats, or frozen goods, can drip water onto the floor if not properly maintained.
Freshly Mopped Floors Without Warning Signs
While cleaning is necessary, failing to post wet floor signs or cordon off mopped areas puts unsuspecting customers at risk. Sometimes, the floor may have been mopped because a customer spilled a drink, dropped a container of liquid, or tracked in water from outside. Even then, it’s the store’s responsibility to clean up the mess promptly and post appropriate warnings.
Rainy Weather Conditions
During Florida’s frequent rainstorms, water tracked in from outside can collect at store entrances or in front of walk-off mats that aren’t replaced or appropriately secured.
Condensation on Tiles
In humid climates, condensation can form on cool tile surfaces, particularly near freezer aisles, leading to nearly invisible slipping hazards.
What Injuries Can Wet Floors Cause?
Slipping on a wet surface can lead to serious, often life-changing, injuries. Common slip and fall injuries include:
- Broken wrists, ankles, or hips
- Back and neck injuries
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Soft tissue injuries requiring physical therapy
Older adults are especially vulnerable to these injuries, but anyone can experience lasting pain and medical expenses from a single fall.
What to Do If You Slip and Fall at Publix
If you’re injured due to a wet floor at Publix, take the following steps:
- Report the incident to the store manager and ensure a report is filed.
- Take photos of the wet floor, the surrounding area, and any warning signs (or lack thereof).
- Get witness information from anyone who saw the fall or the wet area.
- Seek medical attention promptly, even if you feel fine at first.
- Contact a Florida slip and fall attorney to discuss your options before speaking with anyone from Publix, their lawyers, or their law firms.
Let VCM Law Group Stand Up for You
Publix and its insurers often act quickly to limit their liability, but you don’t have to face them alone. At VCM Law Group, we know how to hold negligent businesses accountable and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured due to a wet floor at Publix, schedule your free consultation with our Miami-based team today. We’re here to help you every step of the way.