Big Lots stores are designed for bargain hunting — wide selections, frequent inventory changes, and high customer traffic. But those same factors can also create conditions where slip and fall injuries happen unexpectedly.
If you were injured in a slip and fall at a Big Lots store in Norman, you may be dealing with pain, medical bills, and questions about whether the store can be held responsible. Oklahoma law may allow you to pursue compensation if unsafe conditions played a role.
Why Slip and Fall Accidents Happen at Big Lots
Big Lots stores often operate with rotating inventory, temporary displays, and stacked merchandise. These conditions can increase fall risks, especially during busy shopping hours. Common hazards we see in discount retail stores include:
- Cluttered or narrowed aisles due to overstock
- Items left on the floor during restocking
- Uneven flooring or damaged tiles
- Loose rugs or floor mats near entrances
- Wet floors from cleaning without proper warning signs
- Poor lighting in certain sections of the store
Customers are focused on shopping, not navigating obstacles. Stores have a responsibility to keep walkways clear and reasonably safe.
Can Big Lots Be Held Liable for a Slip and Fall?
Under Oklahoma premises liability law, retail stores open to the public owe customers a duty of care. To bring a successful slip and fall claim, it generally must be shown that:
- A dangerous condition existed in the store
- Big Lots knew or should have known about the hazard
- The hazard was not fixed or clearly warned about
- The condition directly caused your injury
Large retail chains often argue that hazards appeared suddenly or that customers should have seen the danger. Evidence and timing are critical in proving what really happened.
Common Injuries From Discount Store Falls
Slip and fall accidents at stores like Big Lots can lead to serious injuries, including:
- Broken wrists, ankles, or hips
- Knee and shoulder injuries
- Back and spinal injuries
- Head injuries and concussions
- Soft tissue injuries that worsen over time
Even a single fall can disrupt your ability to work, care for your family, or stay active.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall at Big Lots in Norman
If you are injured in a Big Lots store, taking the right steps early can protect both your health and your legal rights:
- Report the incident to store management immediately
- Request an incident report and document who you spoke with
- Seek medical care as soon as possible
- Take photos of the hazard, aisle conditions, and nearby signage
- Collect witness names and contact information
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal advice
Many retail stores have surveillance cameras, but footage may only be stored for a limited time.
Why Slip and Fall Claims Against Retailers Can Be Challenging
Discount retailers are often backed by corporate insurers whose goal is to minimize payouts. They may question how long the hazard existed, argue the injury isn’t serious, or shift blame to the injured shopper.
Having a lawyer involved helps ensure the situation is properly investigated and that your claim is evaluated fairly.
How Aldridge Teasdale Helps Norman Slip and Fall Victims
At Aldridge Teasdale, we help Norman residents injured in slip and fall accidents at Big Lots and other retail stores. Our team works to:
- Investigate store maintenance and safety practices
- Preserve surveillance footage and witness statements
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- Calculate the full value of your injuries and losses
- Pursue fair compensation, not rushed settlements
We provide clear guidance so you can make informed decisions about your case.
Talk to a Norman Slip and Fall Lawyer
If you were injured in a slip and fall at Big Lots in Norman, a free case review can help you understand your legal options and next steps.
Learn more about working with a Norman slip and fall lawyer.
There are no upfront fees, and you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you.
