A Broward County jury has issued a verdict compelling the franchisee of a local IHOP restaurant to pay $8,299,916.53 in damages to a woman who suffered injuries in a fall that occurred in 2021.
As reported on June 9, 2021, the plaintiff, a 47-year-old woman, was leaving the IHOP situated at 2454 North University Drive in Sunrise. During her exit, she slipped and fell on a deteriorated step just outside the restaurant's exit. This particular step, measuring only six inches in depth, was in violation of building codes that require a minimum depth of 10 inches.
The fall resulted in a severe trimalleolar ankle fracture, affecting all three ankle bones—the distal fibula (lateral malleolus) and the medial and posterior malleolus. The woman had to endure months of painful recovery, including several weeks in a wheelchair and six months of being unable to climb stairs. Furthermore, she has been unable to drive or return to work due to persistent pain and swelling, having to rely on a cane for mobility despite her relatively young age.
The attorneys representing the plaintiff turned down a settlement offer of $100,000 and chose to proceed with the case in court. Ultimately, they succeeded in securing over $8.2 million in compensation for their client. During the trial, Sunshine Restaurant Merger Sub, LLC, the IHOP franchisee, disputed liability in an attempt to avoid responsibility for the woman's life-altering injuries.
The attorney representing the plaintiff expressed satisfaction that the jury carefully considered the facts in the case, especially when the large corporation attempted to shift blame onto their client. This verdict provides some relief for the woman, helping to cover her medical bills and address the permanent changes in her life due to the accident.
