A routine shopping trip turned into a nightmare for one woman who claims she suffered severe injuries due to negligence at a well-known supermarket chain. Ariane Chicles filed a complaint against Publix Super Markets, Inc. in the Circuit Court for the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, on April 17, 2025. The lawsuit accuses Publix of failing to maintain safe premises at their Clearwater location.
According to the complaint, Chicles was shopping as a business invitee at the Publix store located at 1520 McMullen Booth Road on May 18, 2023, when she slipped and fell on a sticky substance on the floor. The incident allegedly resulted in serious and permanent injuries. Chicles argues that Publix had a duty to either prevent such dangerous conditions or adequately warn customers about them but failed to do so. "The negligent condition and the resulting dangers of the substance on the floor were known to Defendant," states the complaint, emphasizing that Publix should have been aware of the hazard due to its duration.
Chicles is seeking damages exceeding $50,000, exclusive of costs and interest. Her lawsuit details various forms of harm she has endured due to the fall, including bodily injury, physical pain and suffering, disability, mental anguish, and loss of earning capacity. Additionally, she seeks compensation for medical expenses incurred as a result of her injuries. The plaintiff's legal team is demanding a jury trial and hopes for a judgment that not only covers these damages but also any other relief deemed just by the court.
Representing Ariane Chicles is attorney John A. Marvin from Pipas Law Group based in St. Petersburg, Florida. The case is identified under Case Number: 25-001998-CI and will be presided over by judges within the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court.