A tragic incident at a major retail store has led to a significant legal battle, highlighting concerns over customer safety and corporate responsibility. Ruthie France filed a complaint against Wal-Mart Stores East, LP in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania on September 17, 2024.
The case revolves around an unfortunate event that occurred on September 3, 2024. Ruthie France alleges that while she was lawfully on the premises of a Wal-Mart store located at 30 Trinity Point Drive, Washington, Pennsylvania, she suffered severe injuries due to defective shopping carts. According to the complaint, as France attempted to pull a cart from its stored position, it remained stuck due to defective wheels and/or locking mechanisms. This caused her to fall and sustain various severe and permanent bodily injuries including a fractured skull and concussion.
France's lawsuit accuses Wal-Mart of negligence in maintaining safe conditions for its customers. The complaint details several specific failures by Wal-Mart and its employees: failing to repair defective carts promptly, not inspecting the premises adequately to identify potential hazards, and neglecting to provide proper safety warnings about the dangerous condition of the carts. The plaintiff also claims that these failures violate Sections 323 and 324A of the Second Restatement of Torts.
The consequences for France have been dire. She asserts that her injuries have led to ongoing pain and suffering, mental anxiety, loss of earnings or earning power, and significant medical expenses. Furthermore, she claims that her ability to engage in usual activities has been severely impacted, leading to a diminished quality of life.
In light of these allegations, France is seeking judgment against Wal-Mart Stores East, LP for an amount exceeding $50,000. She demands compensation for her medical expenses both past and future, loss of earnings or earning power, physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, and other financial losses incurred due to the accident.
Representing Ruthie France are attorneys Anthony J. Giannetti and James L. Cartwright from Swartz Culleton PC.