A tragic accident has led to a legal battle as a Florida resident seeks justice for injuries sustained due to alleged negligence. Lourdes Arena filed a complaint on January 14, 2025, in the Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida, against Lantana I Owner, LLC. The case revolves around a pedestrian accident that resulted in severe personal injuries and the death of Arena's emotional support dog.
According to the complaint, Lourdes Arena was walking her dog at the Oceanside Lantana apartment complex on January 16, 2023, when she was struck by a vehicle while using a crosswalk on the defendant's property. The lawsuit claims that there were no traffic signs such as "Stop," "No Left-hand Turn," or "Do Not Enter" at the location of the incident. This lack of signage allegedly allowed an automobile to drive against traffic and hit Arena, causing significant bodily harm and killing her canine companion.
Arena accuses Lantana I Owner, LLC of negligence for failing to maintain safe conditions on their property. The complaint highlights several areas where the defendant purportedly breached their duty of care: not installing necessary traffic signs, neglecting property maintenance, and inadequately training staff to ensure public safety. The absence of these critical safety measures is cited as a violation of Palm Beach County Code.
The plaintiff contends that Lantana I Owner had actual or constructive knowledge of these hazardous conditions but failed to act appropriately. As a result of this negligence, Arena suffered permanent injuries including scarring and disability, endured pain and suffering both past and future, and experienced emotional trauma from witnessing her dog's death. She also faces ongoing medical expenses related to her injuries.
In seeking relief from the court, Lourdes Arena demands damages exceeding $50,000 for her losses. These include compensation for medical bills—both incurred and anticipated—pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life due to permanent disabilities, and mental anguish resulting from the incident.
Representing Lourdes Arena is attorney Roberto D. Stanziale from Fort Lauderdale. The case has been assigned Case Number 502025CA000342XXXAMB.