Wal-Mart sued by woman claiming injury from trip and fall over broken shelf

GRETNA – An international retailer is being sued by a woman who claims she was severely injured after tripping on a broken shelf and falling.

Paulette Gardner filed suit against Wal-Mart Stores Inc. in the 24th Judicial District Court on Oct. 31.

Gardner asserts that on April 27, 2014 she was shopping at the Wal-Mart located at 5110 Jefferson Highway in Harahan and was walking down an aisle when her left foot caught on the bottom of a broken shelf and she fell to her knees. The plaintiff claims she suffered severe and traumatic injuries in the incident.

The defendant is accused of failing to maintain the premises in a safe condition, failing to properly inspect the premises, failing to warn of a known hazard and failing to timely correct the hazard.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and loss of earning capacity.

Gardner is represented by attorney Thomas E. Campbell of Metairie.

The case has been assigned to Division A Judge Raymond S. Steib Jr.

Case no. 743-909.