If you’ve slipped, tripped, or fallen while shopping at Walmart, you may be wondering if you really need a lawyer. After all, it’s technically possible to file a lawsuit by yourself.
However, Walmart is one of the biggest retailers in the world, which means it has access to some of the most well-resourced lawyers in the nation. Additionally, as a self-insured company, Walmart has every incentive to fight claims aggressively.
Without skilled legal representation, you run the risk of being pressured into accepting a low settlement or having your case dismissed entirely. That’s why having an experienced premises liability lawyer by your side can make the difference in whether you walk away with fair compensation or nothing.
Read on to learn about how slip and fall cases happen at Walmart, why you need a lawyer for Walmart slip and fall cases, what to do if you slip and fall at Walmart, and how the Law Offices of Kroger-Diamond & Campos can help.
How Do Slip and Fall Cases Happen at Walmart?
Slip and fall cases frequently happen at Walmart stores across the United States. Hazards that can cause these accidents include the following:
- Loose or torn carpeting
- Chipped or loose floor tiles
- Wet or recently mopped floors without adequate warning signs
- Mud, ice, snow, or water brought in from outside
- Broken pavement and potholes in the parking lot
- Spilled foods and liquids from customers or falling merchandise
- Leaks from fridges or plumbing
Even a seemingly minor fall can cause serious injuries. Here are some of the most common consequences:
- Sprains and strains
- Fractures and broken bones
- Herniated discs and spinal injuries
- Head trauma or concussions
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
Why You Need a Lawyer for Walmart Slip and Fall Cases
While you can technically sue Walmart by yourself, doing so against a company of that size is risky. Their lawyers are trained to minimize payouts and shift blame onto you or third parties. Without a lawyer, you may experience numerous difficulties:
- Lose access to vital evidence, such as surveillance footage or maintenance logs, which can disappear quickly if you don’t have a lawyer advocating for you right at the start.
- Be blamed for your own fall — for example, you may be told that you simply shouldn’t have walked so fast when there was so much snow tracked in from the outside.
- Face aggressive settlement tactics before you can determine the full extent of your injuries — for example, you may be told that you’re lucky to get any money at all. You may also be pressured into accepting a quick payout that won’t actually cover your future medical bills, lost income, and long-term pain and suffering.
What To Do After a Slip and Fall at Walmart
If you’re injured at a Walmart in San Diego or Carlsbad, you need to act immediately to ensure you have the evidence to file a lawsuit. Follow these steps:
- Report the slip and fall right away to a store manager and ask for a written copy of the report.
- Take photos or videos of the hazard that caused your injuries as well as the surrounding area.
- Get medical treatment right away, even if you feel fine at first. Some symptoms only show up hours or days after the initial slip and fall.
- Get the full names and contact information of any witnesses who saw your fall.
- Call an experienced premises liability lawyer or law office to explore your next options. Be sure to call a lawyer before responding to Walmart, if they reach out. Your lawyer will handle all communications on your behalf and ensure you get maximum compensation.
How the Law Offices of Kroger-Diamond & Campos Can Help
If you or a loved one slipped while in a Walmart store, contact the Law Offices of Kroger-Diamond & Campos. We have over 40 years of experience advocating for clients with cases like yours. When you work with us, we will do the following:
- Launch a rapid investigation to gather and protect evidence before it disappears.
- Guide you through every step of the legal process, whether that’s filing your claim or preparing for trial. That way, you always know what to expect and can make informed decisions.
- Handle all communication with Walmart so you can focus on recovery.
- Work with third-party expert witnesses to establish liability and determine the true value of your losses.
- Negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation and take your case to court as needed.
Book a free case consultation to learn more about how we can help you. We are proud to serve clients in San Diego, Carlsbad, and throughout California.