April 2025

April 2025 – $1.75M Slip and Fall at Major Retail Store

Case Summary:
Partner David Shay and his legal team at Vaziri Law Group secured a $1.75 million settlement for a client who suffered severe injuries after slipping on spilled liquid body wash at a major retail store. The incident occurred during active inventory stocking by a temporary clerk, and surveillance footage revealed the spill had been visible and ignored for a period of time. The case highlighted clear premises liability and corporate negligence in maintaining a safe shopping environment.

Facts of the Case:
The client slipped on a pool of liquid bodywash that had leaked from a damaged container, which had been carelessly returned to the shelf with the cap off. Video evidence showed another customer maneuvering to avoid the spill moments before the fall. No safety cones or cleanup efforts were in place, despite the area being staffed during inventory. The client fell violently, landing on her knee and bracing herself with her hand or shoulder.

Treatment:
Following the fall, the client suffered injuries to the neck, lower back, shoulder, hip, hand, and knee, with ongoing radiating pain and neurological symptoms. Paramedics transported her from the scene. Her condition worsened in the following days, prompting intensive treatment. She ultimately underwent a two-level anterior lumbar discectomy and fusion (L4–5 and L5–S1) involving PEEK implants, BMP, DBX bone graft material, anterior lumbar instrumentation, fluoroscopic guidance, and intraoperative neuromonitoring. Treatment remains ongoing.

Legal Strategy:
Partner David Shay and his team presented compelling surveillance footage and expert analysis to establish the store's failure to address a known hazard. The visible, unattended spill and poor handling of the damaged product created a strong foundation for liability. With the support of medical documentation and a comprehensive damages analysis, the legal team secured a settlement that accounted for past, present, and future harm.

Pursuing Justice:
This $1.75 million settlement reinforces our commitment to holding businesses accountable for unsafe premises. Our client endured immense physical and emotional hardship due to preventable negligence. At Vaziri Law Group, we fight to ensure those injured on unsafe properties receive the compensation and care they deserve.