Wicker Smith’s Spengler and Woodard obtain defense verdict in general liability case

Wicker Smith Orlando partners Kurt Spengler and Melissa Woodward and associate Jacqueline Bourdon recently obtained a defense verdict in a general liability case in Osceola County, Florida. Plaintiff in this case alleged that while she was dining at a popular national restaurant chain, a single arm of a paddle fan unexpectedly fell and struck her, causing injuries to her neck, back and left shoulder. She underwent neck surgery under a letter of protection and claimed medical bills in excess of $200,000. Liability, causation and damages were all contested at trial. The defense disputed that the fan struck the guest at all and further argued that the injuries she claimed were pre-existing based on a review of her significant medical history. Plaintiff’s last demand before trial was $300,000, and she asked the jury for $2 million at closing. After less than an hour of deliberation, the jury returned a complete defense verdict