There have been plenty of studies that tell us how much of our life we spend working, watching TV, or sleeping. But, have you ever considered how much time you spend shopping? You might be surprised that the average American spends 46 minutes a day grocery shopping and 50 minutes each day shopping for other items.
Those statistics also mean you are spending considerable time just walking through parking lots, and it’s likely that you will slip, trip or fall in one at some point. Is the store responsible for falls in their parking lot? Can you receive compensation if you’re injured?
Businesses have a responsibility to maintain their property
Indiana law states that property owners are responsible for caring for their invitees. In other words, the store is responsible for its customers’ safety, including the upkeep and maintenance of their parking lot. This involves regular sweeping and cleaning and removing snow and ice in the winter. The owner is responsible for repairing any damage to the pavement, such as cracks or potholes. They also need to ensure that the parking lot is well-lit and safe for customers to use.
You may be wondering what your options are if you have been injured because of a fall in a parking lot. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the property owner.
Proving that the property owner was negligent in maintaining the property and that this negligence led to your injuries may entitle you to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.