Wal-Mart sued over permanent disability customer claims to have sustained in slip and fall

GRETNA – Wal-Mart is being sued by a customer who claims she was injured and disabled in a slip and fall on its premises.

Marian Cruz Ortiz filed suit against Wal-Mart Louisiana LLC, Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Steven Harris in the 24th Judicial District Court on Nov. 1.

Ortiz claims that she was shopping at the Wal-Mart located at 1501 Manhattan Blvd. in Harvey when she slipped and fell in puddle of water that had accumulated in one of the aisles. The plaintiff alleges she received severe and disabling injuries in the incident.

The defendant is accused of failing to maintain a safe area, failing to provide immediate assistance, failing to train employees, failing to warn patrons, reckless endangerment, reckless indifference, allowing a substance to remain on the floor and endear patrons, failing to preserve physical evidence, failing to properly interview witnesses and failing to preserve video evidence.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for loss of enjoyment of life, physical disability, mental pain and suffering, disruption of bodily tissues and cells, medical expenses and lost wages.

Ortiz is represented by Ron A. Austin of Harvey-based Ron Austin & Associates LLC.

The case has been assigned to Division P Judge Lee V. Faulkner Jr.

Case no. 743-937.