Steps to Preserve Evidence, Prove Negligence, and Pursue Compensation
Costco stores across California see thousands of daily visitors, and while most trips are uneventful, accidents do happen. Slip and falls, falling merchandise, parking lot hazards, and restroom injuries are among the most common incidents reported. If you were injured at a Costco location due to unsafe conditions, you may be entitled to compensation under California’s premises liability laws.
This article outlines the key steps to filing a Costco injury claim in California, including how to document your case, establish negligence, and protect your legal rights.
Step 1: Report the Incident Immediately
Notify a store manager or employee as soon as the injury occurs. Request that they document the incident and provide you with a copy of the report. Be factual and objective—avoid assigning blame or speculating about fault. If possible, ask for the names of any witnesses and the manager who completed the report.
Step 2: Seek Prompt Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a medical professional. Medical records serve as critical evidence in injury claims and help establish the severity and timing of your condition. Delayed treatment can weaken your case and allow Costco’s insurance team to argue that your injuries were unrelated.
Step 3: Preserve Evidence
Take photos of the hazard that caused your injury (e.g., wet floor, broken railing, spilled merchandise). If you slipped on a substance, document its location, color, and whether warning signs were present. Preserve your clothing and footwear, and keep receipts from your visit. If possible, request that surveillance footage be retained.
Step 4: Understand Costco’s Duty of Care
Under California law, Costco has a legal obligation to maintain reasonably safe premises for customers. This includes:
- Regular inspections of aisles, restrooms, and entryways
- Prompt cleanup of spills or debris
- Proper lighting and signage
- Safe stacking and storage of merchandise
- Timely repair of known hazards
To succeed in your claim, you must show that Costco breached this duty and that the breach directly caused your injury2.
Step 5: File a Premises Liability Claim
Your attorney will help you file a formal claim against Costco and its insurance provider. This includes:
- Drafting a demand letter outlining your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Submitting supporting documentation (medical records, photos, witness statements)
- Negotiating a settlement or preparing for litigation if Costco disputes liability
California’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of injury. However, early action is critical to preserve evidence and secure surveillance footage.
Common Injuries in Costco Claims
- Hip fractures from slip and falls
- Head trauma from falling merchandise
- Back and neck injuries from uneven flooring
- Wrist and shoulder injuries from trip hazards
- Lacerations from broken fixtures or shelving
Even injuries that seem minor can develop into long-term health issues. Documenting symptoms and treatment is essential for a successful claim.
Why Contact The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock
At The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C., we represent individuals injured in retail environments, including Costco stores across California. Our firm offers:
- Decades of experience in premises liability litigation
- Strategic coordination with medical experts and investigators
- Compassionate, client-centered representation
- A proven track record of securing substantial settlements
If you or a loved one was injured at a Costco location, contact our San Diego office today for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights and pursue justice with clarity and resolve.
References
- Adley Law Firm. (2025). What to do after a slip and fall injury at Costco
- McCready Law. (2025). Do I have a valid injury claim against Costco?
- Attorney Guss Injury Lawyers. (2025). Costco slip and fall claims: Don’t believe everything they tell you
- Law Offices of Melinda J. Helbock. (2025). Most Common Slip and Fall Injuries. Retrieved from https://www.helbocklaw.com/most-common-injuries-from-slip-and-fall-accidents/
