Chicago residents probably understand more than most locations that slip and fall accidents can be extremely serious in nature. A recent jury verdict of $2.3 million concerning a slip and fall injury validates this point. While shopping at a Kroger's Grocery Store, the plaintiff slipped on a piece of crushed fruit in front of the deli and then fell down upon his back.

The fall resulted in the plaintiff suffering a spinal cord injury, and he was forced to undergo several surgeries concerning the placement of hardware to stabilize the spine. The plaintiff's medical expenses were $135,000. More importantly, he has not been able to return to his job as landscaper and will likely continue to be deprived on his wages due to his injuries.

The grocery store did not help its case by attempting to hide potentially damaging evidence. Instead of producing video footage of the accident, it is thought that the grocery chain deliberately erased the video tape so that it could not be viewed in court. The grocery chain was sanctioned for the spoliation of evidence, and the judge then made a determination that the chain was negligent for its upkeep of the premises.

It bears repeating that slip and fall accidents often are extremely serious in nature and can result in debilitating head, neck and back injuries. As in the above circumstance, injuries suffered in such accidents can frequently be career-ending.

As the above accident indicates, defendants in such suit will occasionally engage in unethical conduct in an attempt to escape liability. Fortunately, lawyers experienced in litigating slip and fall cases generally can make sure that such attempts to escape liability will fail.

Source: AJC.com, "Gwinnett jury returns $2.3 million verdict in slip-and-fall lawsuit against Kroger," by Andria Simmons, Jan. 26, 2012