Judge May Set Aside $876,000 Slip and Fall Verdict

By Laura Vogltanz

Published on August 03, 2006

The $876,000 verdict was awarded in June to Joyce Reynolds, a 50-year old Wharton resident who suffered neck and spinal injuries after she slipped and fell at a ShopRite supermarket. The store’s lawyer is now asking for the jury verdict to be reduced or tossed out.

During the trial that lead to the verdict, Reynolds’ attorney, Timothy Brunnock, argued that ShopRite was responsible for ensuring the store's aisles were not slick from water caused by a large rain storm that occurred the day of the incident. Brunnock stated that the problem of water in the store was predictable and ongoing and that it was reasonable for the jury to conclude constructive notice of a potential hazard was everywhere.

In court papers, ShopRite’s attorney, Robert Gold, contends that there is no evidence ShopRite was negligent and that no clear evidence exists of what Reynolds slipped on. Gold maintains that Reynolds had serious pre-existing injuries to her neck. He also says that during the trial, there was no expert testimony that indicated Reynolds cannot participate in normal activities, such as dancing or shopping.

New Jersey Superior Court Judge W. Hunt Dumont will hear arguments in the matter Friday.

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