Facts

On Sept. 20, 2013, Blanche Smith, in her 80s, tripped and fell while descending the stairwell in an underground parking garage. She sued defendants, the owners of the building, for negligent repair and/or maintenance.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Smith contended that defendants did not properly maintain the parking garage, creating a dangerous condition.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS:
Defendants contended that the property was in safe condition and that they were not negligent. They claimed that Smith had vision problems and difficulty with depth perception.

Settlement Discussions

Smith made a demand for $850,000 and the defense offered $50,000.

Damages

Smith sought $1.2 million for attendant care as well as recovery for medical expenses, and past and future pain and suffering.

Injuries

Smith claimed injuries to her legs, wrist, mouth and face.

Result

The jury found that defendants were not negligent, and rendered a defense verdict.