Grocery shoppers should have the right to expect that they won't encounter any hazardous conditions as they push the cart down a store's aisles. Unfortunately, if conditions are not monitored properly, slip and fall injuries can occur.

A man in New Orleans is suing a local grocery store, Rouse's, in the Orleans Parish Civil District Court. He claims he slipped on liquid on his way out of the store and suffered injuries as a result of the store's negligence.

According to the lawsuit, the man was heading toward the store's exit as he left the checkout line when he stepped on a slippery substance and fell to the floor. He reportedly suffered injuries to his back and right knee.

According to the Louisiana Record, the man is seeking damages for his medical expenses, as well as physical and emotional pain and suffering, disfigurement and expenses, among other things.

He's claiming that employees at the grocery store failed to inspect the floor or warn customers of the dangerous condition. He also says the store put patrons at risk by failing to clean up the spill or correct the condition.

In situations like this, a "wet floor" sign or some other warning might have prevented the man's fall. Unfortunately, shoppers like him who go to the store on an ordinary errand might encounter conditions that ultimately affect the rest of their lives. It's of the utmost importance that store employees routinely monitor conditions to prevent slip and fall accidents.

Source: Louisiana Record, "Man sues Rouse's for slip and fall," Kyle Barnett, Jan. 23, 2012