A Pinellas County resident has taken legal action against a major retail corporation, alleging negligence that resulted in significant personal injury. Ashley Horton filed a complaint on December 6, 2024, in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in and for Pinellas County, Florida, naming Sam's East, Inc., and an unknown store manager referred to as John Doe as defendants.
The case revolves around an incident that occurred on July 9, 2024, at a gas station operated by Sam's East, Inc., located at 2575 Gulf to Bay Boulevard in Clearwater. Horton claims she was a business invitee at the premises when she tripped over a deteriorated and uneven area around the gas pumps. This fall allegedly caused her permanent injuries. The complaint asserts that Sam's East, Inc., had both actual and constructive knowledge of the hazardous condition but failed to address it or warn customers like Horton about the potential danger.
According to the lawsuit, Sam's East, Inc., breached its duty to maintain safe premises for its patrons. Horton's attorney argues that the company neglected its responsibility by not correcting or warning about the dangerous conditions despite being aware of them. The plaintiff is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 for her injuries which include bodily harm, pain and suffering, disability or physical impairment, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, lost wages and earning capacity, as well as medical expenses.
In addition to targeting Sam's East, Inc., Horton’s complaint also holds John Doe accountable. As the store manager at the time of the incident and an employee of Sam's East, Inc., John Doe is accused of failing to uphold safety standards consistent with company policies. The lawsuit claims he should have been aware of the hazardous conditions due to their persistence over time and therefore had a duty to act accordingly.
Horton is demanding judgment against both defendants for amounts exceeding $50,000 each and has requested a jury trial to resolve all issues presented in her complaint. Her legal representation is provided by Sarah K. Hibbard from Morgan & Morgan in Tampa.
This case is overseen by Judge Ken Burke under Case Number: 24-005334-CI.