Facts

Phyllis Saunders sued Reschelle Hammond, alleging premises liability.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff, a student in her 60s, attended a senior citizens' party at the Stanford Mansion. As she entered the living room, plaintiff tripped and fell on a step leading into the sunken living room. Plaintiff sustained injuries as a result and sued defendant who owned the property as well as the organization that held the party, and the person who resided at the mansion. Defendants allegedly created a dangerous condition by holding a gathering where alcohol was served and involving 100 seniors. Plaintiff claimed that the dark carpeting made the sunken living room harder to see. The absence of a handrail or rope across the living room also contributed to the dangerousness of the living room.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Defendants denied any code violation and argued that sunken living rooms were not uncommon in California. Defendants also disputed the extent of treatment plaintiff received.

Injuries

Saunders fractured her left foot. She had to wear an orthopedic boot and use crutches to move about. Despite treatment, she continued to have problems ambulating.

Result

The matter continued against the Hammonds only as the other defendants settled out of the case. The jury awarded Saunders $40,485 in damages, including $22,486 in past medical expenses and $18,000 in past pain and suffering.

Other Information

FILING DATE: June 28, 2013.