In a gripping case that underscores the importance of safety in public spaces, a Florida resident has taken legal action against a local restaurant following a distressing incident. Louise Sheehan filed a complaint on May 1, 2025, in the Circuit Court of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida, accusing Dive Bar Restaurant, LLC of negligence after a patio heater fell on her while she was dining outdoors.
The lawsuit outlines the events of February 16, 2024, when Sheehan was enjoying an outing with her family at Dive Bar Restaurant located at 318 South US-1 in Jupiter, Florida. While seated at an outdoor table, a standing patio heater unexpectedly toppled over and struck her. The complaint asserts that this incident was due to the "careless and negligent acts" of the restaurant's management in installing and maintaining the heater. Sheehan claims she was exercising due care for her own safety when the accident occurred.
According to Sheehan's allegations, Dive Bar Restaurant failed to uphold its duty to provide a safe environment for its patrons. The plaintiff argues that as an invitee on the premises, she was owed reasonable care by the defendant. The complaint details multiple instances of alleged negligence by Dive Bar Restaurant, including failing to secure the patio heater properly and neglecting to warn customers about potential hazards. It further accuses the restaurant of allowing dangerous conditions to persist despite having or should have had knowledge of them.
Sheehan is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 for what she describes as permanent and severe bodily injuries resulting from the incident. Her claims include pain and suffering both physically and mentally, disability, disfigurement, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, lost earnings, and diminished earning capacity. The lawsuit demands judgment for damages along with fees and costs associated with pursuing legal action against Dive Bar Restaurant.
Represented by attorney Kevin Meiwizkl., Esq., Louise Sheehan is determined to hold Dive Bar Restaurant accountable for their alleged negligence. The case ID is: 502025CA004296XXXAMB Div: AF.