We Hold Retailers and Property Owners Accountable for Preventable Injuries
When store signs, ceiling fixtures, shelving, or displays come loose and fall, customers can suffer serious injuries, often without warning. These incidents are not “accidents.” They are usually the result of poor installation, inadequate maintenance, or store negligence.
At Williford Law, PLLC, we represent clients in Texas who have been injured by falling signs, ceiling panels, unsecured shelving, and collapsing retail fixtures.
Businesses Have a Duty to Keep Customers Safe
Under Texas premises liability law, business owners must maintain reasonably safe conditions for customers and guests. This includes:
- Regular inspections of ceiling-mounted fixtures and signs
- Proper installation and anchoring of shelves, displays, or racks
- Immediate response to reports of loose or swaying signage
- Ensuring that suspended objects meet commercial safety codes
If a store knew—or should have known—about a dangerous condition and failed to address it, they may be liable for resulting injuries.
Common Causes of Falling Fixtures or Signs
| Hazard | Examples |
| Poor installation | Signs not anchored to studs or rated supports |
| Loose shelving or racks | Freestanding fixtures not secured to walls or floors |
| Overloaded displays | Stacked inventory that exceeds weight limits |
| Ceiling panel failure | Water damage, improper mounting, or defective framing |
| Construction negligence | Renovation work that weakens structural integrity |
| Lack of inspection | Failing to fix issues reported by staff or customers |
These are foreseeable hazards that can—and should—be prevented through proper maintenance and safety policies.
Injuries Caused by Falling Store Fixtures
Depending on the object, height, and force of impact, falling items can cause serious or permanent harm. We represent clients suffering from:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Concussions and head trauma
- Facial fractures or dental injuries
- Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries
- Shoulder and collarbone fractures
- Lacerations requiring stitches or surgery
- Wrongful death (in extreme cases)
Many of these injuries occur in checkout lines, clothing aisles, restrooms, or warehouse-style stores with tall fixtures and ceiling signage.
Who May Be Liable?
Liability may rest with more than one party. We conduct full investigations to identify:
| Party | Potential Role |
| Retailer or store owner | Failed to inspect or maintain store fixtures |
| Commercial landlord | Knew about faulty infrastructure or signs but didn’t act |
| General contractor | Negligent construction or renovation work |
| Signage company or installer | Improper mounting or use of defective hardware |
| Product manufacturer | Defective shelf, mount, or fastener system |
We collect incident reports, inspection records, witness statements, and surveillance footage to build your case.
What to Do After Being Struck by a Falling Object in a Store
- Report the incident to a manager immediately
- Take photos of the fixture, the scene, and your injuries
- Ask for a copy of any incident report
- Get the names and contact info of witnesses
- Seek medical care even if symptoms seem delayed
- Preserve clothing or items damaged in the incident
- Do not give statements to insurers or store investigators without legal guidance
These steps protect your rights and preserve key evidence.
Damages You May Be Entitled to Recover
- Emergency medical care and future treatment
- Pain and suffering
- Lost income and diminished earning capacity
- Permanent disfigurement or disability
- Emotional distress (especially in TBI or PTSD cases)
- Wrongful death-related expenses (if applicable)
We ensure your claim reflects the true cost of your injury, not just the store’s version of events.
Why Choose Williford Law?
At Williford Law, PLLC, we know how retail chains and commercial landlords defend these cases. We bring a proactive, strategic approach that includes:
- Immediate evidence preservation and legal notices
- Expert analysis of engineering and structural codes
- Negotiation with insurance adjusters and store defense counsel
- Trial-ready preparation—every time
And we don’t charge you unless we win.
