Linda Carter has taken legal action against a major retail corporation, alleging negligence after suffering injuries at one of its stores. The complaint was filed by Linda Carter in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, on November 22, 2024, against Home Depot U.S.A., Inc.
The lawsuit arises from an incident that occurred on February 15, 2024, when Linda Carter visited The Home Depot Store located at 2495 Gulf to Bay Blvd., Clearwater, Florida. According to the complaint, Carter tripped and fell over a garden hose that was negligently placed and maintained on the store floor. The hose was described as a hidden danger that posed a risk to customers like Carter who were invitees on the premises. As a result of this fall, Carter claims to have suffered significant injuries including bodily harm, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Carter's legal team argues that Home Depot failed in its duty to ensure the safety of its premises for customers. The complaint outlines several alleged breaches by Home Depot: not implementing adequate inspection policies for public areas within the store; failing to maintain safe conditions; and neglecting to warn customers about potential hazards such as the garden hose. Furthermore, it is asserted that Home Depot either knew or should have known about this dangerous condition due to its regular occurrence and thus had ample opportunity to address it.
The plaintiff seeks damages exceeding $50,000 exclusive of interest and costs. She demands compensation for medical expenses incurred due to hospitalization and treatment following her injuries. Additionally, she seeks recompense for her loss of earnings capacity and other associated losses which are deemed permanent with ongoing effects into the future.
Representing Linda Carter is attorney Christopher L. Hamblen from Clearwater-based Law Offices of Christopher L. Hamblen. The case is presided over by judges within the Circuit Court of Pinellas County under Case Number 24-005144-CI.