Automatic doors are meant to provide convenience, but when they malfunction, they pose a serious danger. At Publix stores in Florida, where high foot traffic and year-round heat put added strain on equipment, these doors can easily become a hazard if not properly maintained.
When an automatic door closes too quickly, fails to open in time, or suddenly stops working, it can cause direct injury to a shopper or force them to trip or fall trying to avoid it. These accidents may seem like flukes, but they’re often preventable, and Publix could be liable if the store failed to address known issues.
Why Doors Malfunction Especially in Florida Heat
Florida’s extreme temperatures and humidity can wreak havoc on automated systems. Over time, exposure to heat can cause components to expand or warp, which can interfere with the smooth operation of tracks, sensors, and motors. Humid conditions may lead to condensation inside control panels, causing electronics to short out or respond inconsistently. Combined with heavy daily use, these environmental factors make regular inspections even more essential in Florida.
When maintenance is skipped or delayed, the automatic door system can fail without warning, resulting in injuries that could have been avoided.
Types of Door Failures That Lead to Injuries
Automatic door accidents typically stem from:
- Doors that close too fast, striking customers or their shopping carts
- Delayed openings, causing people to walk into the glass or frame
- Sudden stops or jerky motion, which startle shoppers and lead to falls
- Sensor failures, where the door doesn’t detect an approaching person at all
These doors are controlled by motion sensors and safety devices that need frequent calibration and testing. Manufacturers usually recommend regular servicing based on traffic volume, something high-traffic Publix stores can’t afford to overlook.
Legal Liability and What to Do After an Injury
If a shopper is injured by a malfunctioning door, Publix might call it a rare accident, but there’s often more to the story. Automatic doors are complex mechanical systems, and when routine inspections are skipped or complaints are ignored, it may rise to the level of negligence.
If you’re hurt by a faulty door:
- Report the incident to store management and ask for an incident report
- Take photos or video of the door and surrounding area if possible
- Request access to surveillance footage (many entrances are under camera surveillance)
- Get medical attention immediately
- Speak to a personal injury lawyer who understands premises liability
Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more, especially if the injury resulted from poor maintenance or a known issue the store failed to fix.
Call VCM Law Group Today
At VCM Law Group, we understand how to handle complex slip, trip, and fall injury cases, particularly those involving malfunctioning equipment, such as automatic doors. If you were injured at a Publix or any other Florida business, don’t let the store brush it off. Our experienced attorneys will investigate, gather evidence, and fight to hold negligent property owners accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you pursue the compensation you deserve.