Pedestrian Sues BP Gas Station for Slip-and-Fall Accident

A recent Pennsylvania Record story reported that a BP Gas station in Pennsylvania is being sued by a pedestrian for injuries allegedly sustained from a slip-and-fall accident on their property in October 2009. The suit alleges that the plaintiff slipped on a puddle of motor oil as she walked across the gas station’s property. The plaintiff allegedly suffered numerous injuries including muscle spasms, joint dysfunction, numbness in her right hand and fingers, a sprained right knee, post-traumatic right elbow, a lower arm sprain and strain, pain and numbness in both buttocks, and strain and shock to her nervous system.

The suit claims that the plaintiff incurred significant medical costs and has been unable to resume her normal duties and activities. The suit further alleges that the plaintiff suffers with chronic physical pain and mental anguish that may continue indefinitely.

The defendants are accused of negligence for their failure to warn customers of the potential hazards on the premises, for allowing a potential hazard to remain on the premises, failing to exercise safety  measures to protect patrons, failing to inspect the premises for any potential dangers and failing to provide a safe area for pedestrians and patrons to traverse on the property. The suit seeks $50,000 in damages. It appears that the defendants in this case are going to need a really good attorney to present their side of the story. The injuries sustained to the plaintiff are quite significant, and premise liability statutes allow for recovery of damages in a case like this.

In Colorado, property owners are liable for slip-and-fall accidents resulting from negligence or failure to maintain a safe environment for pedestrians or patrons. A person injured in a slip-and-fall accident can sue a property owner for damages for their medical expenses, loss of wages/earning capacity, mental and physical anguish and even future medical expenses. A Colorado personal injury attorney will be happy to discuss your options with you should you feel you may have a case. You would be under no obligation to retain an attorney, but it would be beneficial to have the information you need to decide the best option for you.