Trial Magazine

Kayla Ellis, who was in her late 20s, was shopping at a Family Dollar store when she slipped and fell on an unknown substance on the floor. She suffered lower back injuries.

Now 31, Ellis has chronic lower back pain and has undergone chiropractic care and nerve block injections at L4-5, among other treatments. She also experiences headaches and sleeping issues due to restless legs and joint pain. Her medical expenses totaled over $53,200.

Ellis sued Family Dollar Stores of Fla., LLC, alleging negligent failure to inspect and maintain the premises. Suit also alleged that the defendant failed to have adequate staff on duty to check for dangerous conditions.

The jury awarded approximately $2.89 million.

Citation: Ellis v. Family Dollar Stores of Fla., LLC, No. 6:21-cv-218-PGB-EJK (M.D. Fla. Aug. 17, 2023).

Plaintiff counsel: Alicia Smith, Orlando, Fla.