What to Do After a Costco Slip and Fall in Florida
A trip to Costco should not end in an ambulance ride. Unfortunately, large warehouse stores are common locations for serious slip and fall accidents. Spilled liquids, fallen merchandise, wet entryways, and crowded aisles can all create hazardous conditions.
If you were injured in a Costco slip and fall in Florida, knowing what to do next can protect both your health and your legal rights. Below, the Florida premises liability lawyers at Stein Law explain the steps you should take and how a Florida slip and fall lawyer can help you pursue compensation.
Why Slip and Falls Happen at Costco
Big-box retailers like Costco see heavy foot traffic every day. With large inventory, pallet displays, refrigerated sections, and food samples, hazards can develop quickly.
Common causes of Costco slip and fall accidents include:
- Wet floors from spills or cleaning
- Leaking refrigeration units
- Recently mopped areas without warning signs
- Loose floor mats near entrances
- Fallen merchandise in aisles
- Uneven pavement in parking lots
- Poor lighting in store or garage areas
Under Florida premises liability law, property owners and businesses have a duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions for customers. When they fail to fix or warn about dangerous conditions, they may be held liable for injuries.
What to Do Immediately After a Costco Slip and Fall
Taking the right steps after a slip and fall accident can make a major difference in your injury claim.
1. Report the Incident
Notify a Costco manager immediately. Ask them to create an official incident report and request a copy. Make sure the report accurately describes what caused your fall.
Do not minimize your injuries or speculate about fault.
- Take Photos and Videos
If you are physically able, document:
- The exact hazard that caused your fall
- The surrounding area
- Lack of warning signs
- Your visible injuries
- Your shoes and clothing
Conditions can be cleaned or corrected quickly, so evidence preservation is critical.
- Get Witness Information
If other shoppers saw your fall, ask for their names and contact details. Independent witnesses can be extremely helpful in proving negligence.
- Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay initially, seek medical care as soon as possible. Injuries like concussions, spinal trauma, and soft tissue damage may not show symptoms immediately.
Medical documentation is essential for a Costco slip and fall injury claim in Florida.
5. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Alone
Costco and other large retailers have insurance companies and legal teams focused on limiting payouts. You may be contacted quickly after the accident.
Do not give a recorded statement or accept a settlement offer before speaking with a Florida slip and fall attorney.
Who Is Liable for a Costco Slip and Fall in Florida?
To recover compensation, you must show that:
- A dangerous condition existed.
- Costco knew or should have known about it.
- They failed to fix or warn about the hazard.
- The condition caused your injuries.
Under Florida Statute 768.0755, injured customers must prove the business had actual or constructive knowledge of the dangerous condition.
This is why working with an experienced Florida premises liability lawyer is so important. Your attorney can gather:
- Surveillance footage
- Cleaning and maintenance logs
- Employee inspection records
- Witness statements
- Expert testimony
Common Injuries in Costco Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can cause serious harm, including:
- Broken wrists, arms, or hips
- Back and spinal injuries
- Herniated discs
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- Knee and ankle damage
- Shoulder injuries
- Chronic pain conditions
Older adults are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries, but anyone can suffer long-term consequences from a fall.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If your injuries were caused by negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Every case is different, and a Florida slip and fall lawyer can evaluate the full value of your claim.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long can result in losing your right to pursue compensation.
Because businesses often preserve surveillance footage for only a limited time, it is critical to act quickly.
Contact Stein Law
If you were injured in a Costco slip and fall in Florida, you do not have to deal with corporate insurance companies alone.
At Stein Law, you are never treated like a case number. Our clients receive direct access to their attorney and clear communication every step of the way.
Contact Stein Law today or complete our online consultation form to schedule your free case review with a Florida slip and fall lawyer.
FAQ
Can I sue Costco for a slip and fall in Florida?
Yes, if the store failed to maintain safe conditions or warn customers about a known hazard, you may have a premises liability claim.
What if there was no wet floor sign?
The absence of warning signs can strengthen your case, especially if employees knew or should have known about the hazard.
What if I was partially at fault?
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You may still recover compensation, but your damages may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
How much is a Costco slip and fall case worth?
The value depends on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and long-term impact on your life.
Do I need a lawyer for a slip and fall claim?
Yes. Large corporations have aggressive legal teams. A skilled Florida premises liability attorney can protect your rights and negotiate for fair compensation.
