While there are a variety of places throughout the state of Pennsylvania from which to purchase groceries, Trader Joe's is a favorite of many. Beyond the usually healthy food selection, many enjoy shopping surrounded by the kitschy island decor. Unfortunately, a grocery shopping trip to a Trader Joe's ended badly for one Pennsylvania couple last year.
The husband and wife were in the process of exiting a Trader Joe's when the woman tripped and fell. At the time of the incident she was pushing a cart full of the groceries they had just purchased. A wheel on the cart reportedly became stuck near the sliding door in one of several holes where concrete was missing.
As a result of the cart becoming stuck, the woman fell and was fairly seriously injured. She broke her right hip. Among other things the couple claims that the woman will be disfigured, suffer inconvenience and will not enjoy life as fully as a result of her injury. They also alleged that they had to spend a lot of money on expenses related to the woman's health.
Specifically, the couple claims the grocery store did not:
- Provide safe access to the store
- Warn patrons of the dangerous condition
- Eliminate defects in the concrete surrounding the entrance and exit to the store
Due to the injury suffered, the couple is looking to receive in excess of $150,000.
A personal injury lawsuit could be a good option in situations where an individual's injuries were the result of negligent actions on the part of another person or entity. While in some situations these cases proceed to a trial, in other situations they are settled outside of the courtroom. How this matter will be resolved remains to be seen.
Source: The Pennsylvania Record, "Pa. couple sues Trader Joe’s over wife’s fractured hip," Jon Campisi. May 6, 2013