A local resident has filed a lawsuit against Pinellas County, alleging negligence in maintaining public walkways that led to severe injuries. Franklyn Rubin lodged the complaint in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in and for Pinellas County, Florida, on September 9, 2024, targeting Pinellas County as the defendant.
The lawsuit stems from an incident on May 23, 2023, when Rubin was walking westbound on Jacaranda Avenue near Mockingbird Lane in Largo, Florida. According to the complaint, Rubin tripped and fell due to a broken portion of the sidewalk. The fall resulted in serious and permanent injuries to his head, neck, back, hips, legs, and body. Rubin contends that Pinellas County had a duty to maintain safe walkways and failed to do so. The plaintiff asserts that the county knew or should have known about the dangerous condition but did not take appropriate measures to rectify it or warn pedestrians.
Rubin's attorneys argue that Pinellas County breached its duty of care by failing to warn of the dangerous condition and neglecting proper maintenance protocols. Specifically, they allege that the county did not have adequate inspection procedures in place and failed to repair or cordon off the hazardous area. "As a direct and proximate result of the negligence of Pinellas County," Rubin sustained serious injuries that have caused him significant physical pain and suffering. The complaint further states that these injuries have impaired Rubin's ability to lead a normal life and resulted in past and future loss of earnings.
The plaintiff is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 for medical expenses incurred due to his injuries and compensation for ongoing pain and suffering. Additionally, he demands prejudgment interest for all liquidated damages along with court costs. Rubin has also requested a jury trial on all issues presented in the case.
Representing Franklyn Rubin are attorneys Tony Griffith and Justin Peterson from Tanney, Griffith & Bresler P.A., based in Clearwater, Florida. The case has been assigned Case Number: 24-004026-CI.