ADA lawsuit blames Home Depot after man'swheelchair turned over in parking lot

GRETNA – A disabled man is suing Home Depot claiming it violated the Americans With Disabilities Act.

Anthony Vernace III filed suit against Home Depot U.S.A. Inc. in the 24th Judicial District Court on April 14.

Vernace claims he was in the parking lot of the Home Depot located at 2625 Veterans Blvd. in Kenner when a wheel on his wheelchair was caught in a crack and he toppled over. The plaintiff alleges that he was severely injured in the incident.

Vernace contends failing to remove architectural barriers, failing to provide a route in compliance with Americans With Disabilities Act standards, failing to provide access suitable to a person in a wheelchair and creating an unreasonable risk of harm.

The defendant is accused of violating the Americans With Disabilities Act, pain and suffering, disability, loss of wages, loss of earning capacity, medical expenses and travel expenses.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought by the plaintiff.

Vernace is represented by Brian D. Katz of New Orleans-based Herman Herman & Katz LLC.

The case has been assigned to Division L Judge Donald A. Rowan Jr.

Case no. 748-652.