Facts

Claimant Suzanne Naruko, 47, slipped and fell in spilled water on the floor of the entrance to Pechanga Casino. She asserted premises liability claims against respondents and the matter proceeded to arbitration.

CLAIMANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Claimant contended that she fell hard on her buttocks, suffering a concussion with vertigo and nausea. She claimed that she became permanently disabled following the slip and fall, unable to return to her job as a schoolteacher.

RESPONDENT'S CONTENTIONS:
Respondent conceded liability but contested causation and damages, arguing that claimant did not suffer a concussion.

Settlement Discussions

Respondent offered $60,000 prior to the arbitration hearing.

Damages

Claimant requested an award of $3.8 million.

Result

The arbitrator determined that claimant's fall was the cause of her injuries and damages, and awarded her $2,884,077.60. The award included $43,455.60 in past medical expenses, $1,840,532 in past and future lost income and benefits, and $1 million in noneconomic damages.

Other Information

According to defense, the award is not final and may be appealed.

Length

five days