Everyday grocery trips can turn deadly when stores neglect basic safety. Across Michigan, customers are injured by spills, collapsing shelves, and poor maintenance that could have been prevented. Under Michigan’s premises liability law, store owners must keep their aisles safe—or face legal accountability. When corporate shortcuts cause serious harm, victims have the right to demand justice and full compensation.
It starts like any other day. A Detroit mother stops by her neighborhood grocery store for milk and bread. The store is busy, the floors gleam under fluorescent lights, and a worker rushes past with a mop and cart. Within minutes, her life changes forever. A shelf collapses—or maybe she slips on an unmarked puddle of melted ice. Either way, she’s suddenly on the floor, her back searing with pain, unable to move.
No warning signs. No safety precautions. No chance to avoid it.
You don’t expect to fight for your life where you buy your groceries. But every year, thousands of Michiganders are seriously injured in grocery stores that fail to keep their aisles safe. What should be a simple errand too often ends in an ambulance ride, a hospital bed, or even a wrongful death—all because someone didn’t do their job.
Under Michigan premises liability law, a grocery store or retail business must take reasonable steps to keep its property safe for anyone lawfully there—especially customers, known in legal terms as invitees.
According to the Cornell Law definition of negligence, a business is negligent when it fails to exercise “the degree of care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise under similar circumstances.”
When stores cut corners—ignoring a spill, failing to secure shelving, or delaying maintenance—they violate that duty. Under Michigan law, that breach may amount to negligence, or in more extreme cases, gross negligence, which the Michigan Bar Journal defines as behavior “so reckless it demonstrates a substantial lack of concern for whether an injury results.”
Michigan has what’s called the “open and obvious doctrine.” This legal concept allows a property owner to escape liability if a danger was so visible and apparent that a reasonable person would have avoided it.
But here’s the problem: stores often stretch this defense far beyond its purpose—claiming that a clear puddle on shiny tile, a hidden step, or a misplaced item was “obvious.” In reality, many of these hazards are camouflaged by lighting, color, or crowd conditions, making them anything but apparent.
The buck usually stops here. Store owners and management have a non-delegable duty to maintain safe premises. They’re responsible for:
When corporate decisions lead to unsafe conditions, that’s not just negligence—it’s a systemic failure of duty.
Store employees play a huge role in safety. If a worker sees a spill and ignores it, or stacks products dangerously high, they can directly cause injury.
Under Michigan law, their negligence doesn’t just fall on them—it extends to their employer under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior.
Many grocery chains use outside vendors for stocking shelves, cleaning floors, or maintaining equipment. If a contractor leaves a spill, creates an unsafe display, or fails to post warnings, they too can be held responsible for injuries.
These cases often involve multiple insurance companies, each trying to shift blame to someone else. That’s where experienced trial lawyers—like those at Marko Law—step in to cut through the confusion and find the truth.
Sometimes, the problem isn’t human—it’s mechanical.
In these cases, the manufacturer or distributor of the defective product may share liability under product liability law.
Most grocery stores are filled with cameras, and surveillance footage often provides the clearest window into what really happened. It can show:
Stores frequently overwrite footage within days—sometimes within 24 hours. If it’s not preserved immediately, it may be gone forever. At Marko Law, we act fast to secure that video evidence before it disappears.
After an injury, most stores create an internal incident report. This document may include employee statements, photos, or manager notes about the hazard.
These reports often contain crucial admissions—like acknowledging that a spill existed or that warning signs weren’t posted.
However, stores rarely hand them over willingly. Our firm knows how to subpoena, demand, and interpret these reports to expose negligence.
Every Michigan grocery store should have a maintenance schedule for regular cleaning and inspections. If those logs show long gaps—or if they conveniently “go missing”—that’s a red flag.
A missing or incomplete log can prove that the store failed to perform basic safety checks, directly supporting a claim of premises liability.
Other shoppers or employees can make or break a case. Witnesses may confirm:
We track down witnesses fast, before memories fade or stories change. Their testimony often exposes what management tries to hide.
The moment after an accident, your instinct might be to leave quickly out of embarrassment or pain—but if you can, take photos.
If you can’t take them yourself, we often find surveillance stills, employee photos, or bystander videos that do the same job.
Finally, your medical records form the link between the incident and your injuries. They document:
Our legal team uses this documentation to build a full picture of your damages, proving not only that you were hurt—but how deeply that harm has changed your life.
These are the measurable, financial losses that stem from your injury, including:
These damages are meant to restore what the injury took from your financial stability.
These are the intangible but equally devastating losses that don’t show up on a bill. According to the Cornell Law definition, these include:
These damages acknowledge the human side of injury—the sleepless nights, the missed moments, the dignity lost to pain.
In rare but extreme cases, Michigan law also allows for punitive damages when a store’s conduct was reckless, intentional, or malicious.
Grocery stores profit from Michigan families every single day. But with those profits comes a legal and moral duty to keep their stores safe.
When corporations cut corners, Marko Law steps in to make them pay attention—and pay up.
We expose the negligence they try to hide, the records they try to bury, and the excuses they use to deny responsibility.
If you or someone you love was injured in a grocery store—whether from a spill, a falling product, or unsafe conditions—don’t wait. These corporations have lawyers working against you from the moment the accident happens. You need a team that will fight for you.
📞 Call: +1-313-777-7777
📍 Visit: 220 W. Congress, 4th Floor, Detroit, MI 48226
🌐 Website: www.markolaw.com
📣 Follow: Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook
We Will Help You!
Get in touch with a real person 24/7/365.
If you’re a law firm owner and want help optimizing your practice for success, please email jon@markolaw.com
Real stories. Real results. From personal injury recoveries to civil rights victories, our clients trust Marko Law to deliver justice when it matters most. Hear what people across Michigan are saying about their experience with our legal team.
Big shoutout to the Marko Law squad. Gasper was an absolute assassin in the best possible way, and trust me, that's a high compliment coming from me. John Eads and Gasper tag-teamed those negotiations like champs. I'll be sending clients your way for the foreseeable future.
Alex Kay is absolutely a hell of a lawyer! He is compassionate and very thorough at his job! This process was a absolute breeze 🙌
I've been working with attorney Michael Jones for two years and couldn't have asked for a more dedicated attorney. He has never given up on my case and continues to fight hard to make sure justice is served. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer who will stand by you.
Michael Jones and his team have been nothing but kind, courteous and very knowledgeable on any question I have had. They always answer my questions and walk me through the process. I would recommend Marko Law and Michael to anyone who needs an outstanding law firm.
From intake through the entire process, Michael Jones and his team have been doing an excellent job representing me. Their timely responses have given me true faith in their ability. I truly feel I could not be better represented anywhere else. Thank you, Michael and Dae!
Marko’s law firm truly has a great team ! Kyla in medical records is very comforting and pays great attention to detail!
I wanted to offer some positive feedback regarding Melody, who answers the phone. I found her to be very polite, cheerful and empathetic. She went above and beyond to make sure I could talk directly to the person who could best help me, and my issue was successfully resolved.
Marko Law is excellent! My case was handled very well. I appreciate the time Alex Kay spent to ensure I received the maximum payout, and his paralegal Tracey was great too. I recommend Alex Kay and Marko Law to everyone who needs a tried and trusted law firm!
Working with Marko Law Firm has been a superb experience! Alex Kay has done a phenomenal job handling my case, and his expertise has made a stressful situation feel much less daunting. He's been nothing but attentive and informative throughout the process.
Ariel Kellersohn is the best in the business. If you want a lawyer who dedicates herself to your case, you have found the right place. She upholds the highest standards of professionalism and is also very personable and easy to talk to. 10/10, if I could leave more than 5 stars I would!
Having Marko Law handle my case was the best decision I made. Alex Kay was excellent; he understood what I have been through and fought for me every step of the way. His dedication guided my case to a successful settlement. I would recommend them for any legal support you need.
What a fantastic experience I had working with the firm. You made me feel like you cared about me and not about making money. The communication was amazing, and you kept me informed on all aspects of my case. I would 100% recommend you and your firm.
They fight for the little guy. The process is generally hard, very hard, and mentally exhausting, but Marko and his phenomenal attorney Cait bring a lot of ease in that process. And WIN! Cait is straight up, honest of the risks and potential outcomes and such and fighter.
Great hard working firm that fights hard for their clients. Jon and his team are knowledgeable, dedicated and great people all around. Their results speak for themselves! Hire Marko!
John Marko handled my son's case wonderfully. He worked for us for 6 years to get my son the best settlement outcome. I highly recommend Marko Law.
I've been working here for three years and I can honestly say Jon Marko is a very passionate attorney with whom I'd trust a case with. He is honest, hard working and one of the smartest men I know. Wish I could give more than five stars!
Ernst and Marko is a firm that fights for the people. I have known Jon Marko for ten years and worked with him in civil litigation and an excessive force case. He is an aggressive and tireless advocate who fights for his clients to get them justice.
Marko Law exemplifies professionalism and diligence even in the most laborious cases. You truly feel protected and secure when handing Marko Law your vulnerability. They will always fight to protect your rights.
He was my attorney and couldn't of asked for a more aggressive and down to earth eager ATTORNEY! If you want a lawyer that will WIN then Jon Marko is the Man to call! I highly recommend him and we spoke whenever needed! Thank you again MARKO u were awesome:)
Thank you Jonathan Marko! You took my case and never let me down from day one! I recommend Marko Law; you will not regret it! Jonathan Marko is the most amazing Lawyer ever! The law firm is honest, fair, consistent, hard working and very nice! Thank you again!
Attorney Jon Marko is one of the finest attorneys I have ever had the opportunity to work with. His experience and calm courtroom demeanor leaves him unmatched, and makes him a truly aggressive advocate for his clients.
Marko Law is a breath of fresh air. They're responsive, they care and they get the job done. They have great communication which means you never feel out of the loop. Most of all they work hard until they get the outcome necessary. Love Marko and his team!
The Ernst and Marko Law firm has an amazing group of attorneys and staff that will make sure they give each and every client the personalized legal advice they need! They will fight for their clients to make justice is served! I highly recommend this firm!
I've know Jon Marko for years and he is simply the best. He has helped friends and family through tough times and I would trust him with any legal issue, considering that everyone I know that has hired him has had extremely favorable outcomes.
Jon Marko represented me in a lawsuit. He is extremely smart, hardworking, and dedicated to his clients. I'm an attorney myself so I understand what is required of an exceptional attorney. You will not be disappointed if you hire him and his firm to represent you!
The world needs more protectors like Jon Marko from police brutality. He was kind, generous, and reassuring when I spoke to him. Thank you for being a defender of the every man because it's the right thing to do.
Big shoutout to the Marko Law squad. Gasper was an absolute assassin in the best possible way, and trust me, that's a high compliment coming from me. John Eads and Gasper tag-teamed those negotiations like champs. I'll be sending clients your way for the foreseeable future.
Alex Kay is absolutely a hell of a lawyer! He is compassionate and very thorough at his job! This process was a absolute breeze 🙌
I've been working with attorney Michael Jones for two years and couldn't have asked for a more dedicated attorney. He has never given up on my case and continues to fight hard to make sure justice is served. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer who will stand by you.
Michael Jones and his team have been nothing but kind, courteous and very knowledgeable on any question I have had. They always answer my questions and walk me through the process. I would recommend Marko Law and Michael to anyone who needs an outstanding law firm.
From intake through the entire process, Michael Jones and his team have been doing an excellent job representing me. Their timely responses have given me true faith in their ability. I truly feel I could not be better represented anywhere else. Thank you, Michael and Dae!
Marko’s law firm truly has a great team ! Kyla in medical records is very comforting and pays great attention to detail!
I wanted to offer some positive feedback regarding Melody, who answers the phone. I found her to be very polite, cheerful and empathetic. She went above and beyond to make sure I could talk directly to the person who could best help me, and my issue was successfully resolved.
Marko Law is excellent! My case was handled very well. I appreciate the time Alex Kay spent to ensure I received the maximum payout, and his paralegal Tracey was great too. I recommend Alex Kay and Marko Law to everyone who needs a tried and trusted law firm!
Working with Marko Law Firm has been a superb experience! Alex Kay has done a phenomenal job handling my case, and his expertise has made a stressful situation feel much less daunting. He's been nothing but attentive and informative throughout the process.
Ariel Kellersohn is the best in the business. If you want a lawyer who dedicates herself to your case, you have found the right place. She upholds the highest standards of professionalism and is also very personable and easy to talk to. 10/10, if I could leave more than 5 stars I would!
Having Marko Law handle my case was the best decision I made. Alex Kay was excellent; he understood what I have been through and fought for me every step of the way. His dedication guided my case to a successful settlement. I would recommend them for any legal support you need.
What a fantastic experience I had working with the firm. You made me feel like you cared about me and not about making money. The communication was amazing, and you kept me informed on all aspects of my case. I would 100% recommend you and your firm.
They fight for the little guy. The process is generally hard, very hard, and mentally exhausting, but Marko and his phenomenal attorney Cait bring a lot of ease in that process. And WIN! Cait is straight up, honest of the risks and potential outcomes and such and fighter.
Great hard working firm that fights hard for their clients. Jon and his team are knowledgeable, dedicated and great people all around. Their results speak for themselves! Hire Marko!
John Marko handled my son's case wonderfully. He worked for us for 6 years to get my son the best settlement outcome. I highly recommend Marko Law.
I've been working here for three years and I can honestly say Jon Marko is a very passionate attorney with whom I'd trust a case with. He is honest, hard working and one of the smartest men I know. Wish I could give more than five stars!
Ernst and Marko is a firm that fights for the people. I have known Jon Marko for ten years and worked with him in civil litigation and an excessive force case. He is an aggressive and tireless advocate who fights for his clients to get them justice.
Marko Law exemplifies professionalism and diligence even in the most laborious cases. You truly feel protected and secure when handing Marko Law your vulnerability. They will always fight to protect your rights.
He was my attorney and couldn't of asked for a more aggressive and down to earth eager ATTORNEY! If you want a lawyer that will WIN then Jon Marko is the Man to call! I highly recommend him and we spoke whenever needed! Thank you again MARKO u were awesome:)
Thank you Jonathan Marko! You took my case and never let me down from day one! I recommend Marko Law; you will not regret it! Jonathan Marko is the most amazing Lawyer ever! The law firm is honest, fair, consistent, hard working and very nice! Thank you again!
Attorney Jon Marko is one of the finest attorneys I have ever had the opportunity to work with. His experience and calm courtroom demeanor leaves him unmatched, and makes him a truly aggressive advocate for his clients.
Marko Law is a breath of fresh air. They're responsive, they care and they get the job done. They have great communication which means you never feel out of the loop. Most of all they work hard until they get the outcome necessary. Love Marko and his team!
The Ernst and Marko Law firm has an amazing group of attorneys and staff that will make sure they give each and every client the personalized legal advice they need! They will fight for their clients to make justice is served! I highly recommend this firm!
I've know Jon Marko for years and he is simply the best. He has helped friends and family through tough times and I would trust him with any legal issue, considering that everyone I know that has hired him has had extremely favorable outcomes.
Jon Marko represented me in a lawsuit. He is extremely smart, hardworking, and dedicated to his clients. I'm an attorney myself so I understand what is required of an exceptional attorney. You will not be disappointed if you hire him and his firm to represent you!
The world needs more protectors like Jon Marko from police brutality. He was kind, generous, and reassuring when I spoke to him. Thank you for being a defender of the every man because it's the right thing to do.
At Marko Law, we don’t just take cases. we take a stand. Whether you're facing an injury, injustice, or outright negligence, our team fights like it’s personal, because to you, it is.
Ready to make your voice heard?
We’re not here to play games. We’re here to win.
