A shocking incident at a retail store has led to a lawsuit that could have significant repercussions for business practices and customer safety standards. On June 3, 2024, Susan Seaver filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the 6th Judicial Circuit in and for Pinellas County, Florida, against Big Lots Stores, LLC.
The lawsuit stems from an incident that occurred on May 17, 2023, at a Big Lots store located at 41306 US Hwy 19 N., Tarpon Springs, FL. According to the complaint, Seaver was shopping when she picked up a glass picture frame from a shelf that unexpectedly shattered in her hand. The plaintiff alleges that Big Lots Stores failed to exercise reasonable care in maintaining their premises and ensuring the safety of their products. The complaint outlines several specific failures on the part of Big Lots Stores, including inadequate inspections to identify hazardous conditions or products, failure to warn customers about dangerous items, and lack of proper staff training regarding maintenance and inspection procedures.
Seaver's attorney argues that these failures constitute negligence on the part of Big Lots Stores. "Defendant breached its duties to Plaintiff by failing to exercise reasonable care in maintaining the frame," reads one section of the complaint. The document further asserts that Big Lots had either actual knowledge of the dangerous condition or should have known about it through ordinary care. As a result of this alleged negligence, Seaver claims she suffered injuries to her body and extremities, incurred medical expenses, experienced physical handicap, and faced impaired working ability. The injuries are described as either permanent or continuing in nature.
In terms of legal relief, Seaver is seeking compensatory damages exceeding $50,000 exclusive of attorney's fees, interest, and costs. She also demands any taxable costs associated with the case and other relief deemed just and proper by the court. Additionally, Seaver has requested a jury trial for all triable issues under Florida Rules of Civil Procedure 1.430.
Representing Susan Seaver are attorneys Loren Shalom and Jason Turchin from the Law Offices of Jason Turchin located in Weston, Florida. The case is presided over by Judge Ken Burke under Case Number: 24-002448-ClI.