A slip-and-fall incident at a popular nightclub has led to a significant lawsuit that could set a precedent for business owners' responsibilities towards their patrons. On September 17, 2024, David Diaz filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit of Florida, located in Pinellas County, against Forward Hospitality Services, LLC, doing business as Good Night John Boy.
The case revolves around an incident that occurred on August 10, 2024, at Good Night John Boy's nightclub located at 16 2nd Street North in St. Petersburg, Florida. According to the complaint, Diaz was attending the nightclub as an invitee when he slipped and fell on the dance floor. The fall resulted in serious bodily injuries for Diaz. The plaintiff alleges that there were no caution or warning signs in place at the time of his fall and claims that the nightclub failed to maintain a safe environment for its guests.
Diaz's legal team argues that Forward Hospitality Services had several duties towards its patrons, including maintaining a safe dance floor, inspecting for hazards, and warning guests of any known dangers. Specifically, the complaint states that prior to the incident, the defendant had set up a table with an ice bucket and alcohol on the dance floor for a private birthday party. This setup allegedly allowed water and/or alcohol to accumulate on the dance floor, creating an unreasonably slippery and hazardous condition.
The complaint lists multiple breaches of duty by Good Night John Boy. These include failing to maintain a safe dancing surface, neglecting to inspect and clean the area properly, not providing adequate lighting and staffing on the dance floor, and allowing customers to serve themselves drinks on the dance floor without supervision. "The liquid on the dance floor created a dangerous condition for invitees and customers," reads one part of the complaint.
David Diaz is seeking general damages exceeding $50,000 exclusive of costs, interest, and attorney’s fees. He also demands compensation for pain and suffering, disability and disfigurement, mental anguish, loss of capacity for enjoyment of life, past and future lost wages, medical expenses incurred due to hospital care and treatment following his fall.
Representing David Diaz is attorney Mark Wright from Tampa-based law firm Mark Wright Law Group. The case is presided over by Judge Ken Burke under Case Number: 24-004177-CI.