Battle v. Ainsworth d/b/a Chick-fil-A

G. Jeffrey Vernis and Natasha Coyle (Palm Beach) (Premises Liability) obtained an excellent result in a 6-day jury trial in Palm Beach County, Florida on May 1, 2024. The case arose from a slip and fall that occurred in a service hallway located inside the Gardens Mall. The Plaintiff was working as a housekeeper and alleges that water spilled from the premises or property of the Chick-fil-A creating a dangerous condition causing him to fall. The Plaintiff claimed to have suffered injuries to his low back, neck, both knees and both shoulders. He underwent numerous medical procedures including two surgeries to his neck and lower back. The medical expenses that were presented to the jury totaled $594,746 and evidence of future medical expenses of $200,000. The Plaintiff’s pre-trial demand was $750,000 and the Plaintiff asked the jury to award $1,944,746. After the six-day trial, the jury returned a verdict finding Chick-fil-A only 20% at fault and awarded only $166,500 in total damages, making the recovery against Chick-fil-A only $33,300. Post trial motions are pending.