A slip-and-fall incident at a supermarket has led to a legal battle, highlighting the importance of maintaining safe premises for customers. On March 4, 2025, Gilda Kay Burton filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, against Publix Super Markets, Inc. The lawsuit stems from an alleged negligence incident that occurred on August 8, 2024.
According to the complaint filed by Burton's attorney, Alan Bulnes of Mickey Keenan, P.A., Burton was shopping at the Publix located at 525 S. Belcher Rd in Clearwater when she slipped and fell on what appeared to be yogurt near the dairy section. The lawsuit claims that Publix failed to maintain its premises in a reasonably safe condition and neglected to warn customers about potential hazards. Burton asserts that as a business invitee, she was owed a duty of care by Publix to ensure her safety while on their property.
The allegations state that Publix breached its duty by allowing yogurt to remain on the floor, thus creating a hazardous condition. The complaint further accuses Publix of failing to inspect and remedy this hazard despite having ample opportunity and responsibility to do so. As a result of this alleged negligence, Burton claims she suffered significant injuries including pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, lost earnings capacity, and potentially aggravated pre-existing conditions.
Burton is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 for her injuries and losses. She demands judgment against Publix for these damages along with costs and interest. Additionally, she requests any other relief deemed just and proper by the court. The case underscores the responsibilities businesses have towards their patrons' safety and could serve as a cautionary tale for companies regarding premises liability.
Representing Burton is attorney Alan Bulnes from Mickey Keenan P.A., based in Tampa. The case has been assigned Case Number 25-001030-CI in the Circuit Court of Pinellas County.