A visit to the local stadium to watch football isn’t normally considered a life-altering event. But, for one young Jacksonville man it was just that. Matt White, a 24-year-old former professional drummer, sustained a serious, life-altering injury while attending a football game. Matt entered a stadium restroom at the beginning of the first quarter. At the end of the first quarter, Mr. White returned to the same restroom, which by this time was completely flooded. As he turned a blind corner on his way in, he slipped, fell and broke his right ankle. Alcohol and intoxication were not a factor in his fall. The restroom had become flooded due to an overflowing toilet and the defendant did nothing to warn, prevent or remedy the dangerous condition.
The fall that left Mr. White with life-long injuries was resolved by jury verdict concluding a four-day trial in Circuit Court in Duval County. Matt was represented by Howard C. Coker, Daniel A. Iracki and co-counsel Tracy Considine. “People simply don’t realize how often others are injured in slip and fall accidents. Matt White is a very deserving young man who will have to deal with this injury for the rest of his life,” Howard said. The final verdict was $1.475 million for past as well as future medical costs as well as non-economic damages. The defense vehemently denied that the stadium management company was negligent and further contested the severity of Mr. White’s injury. The highest offer prior to trial was $150,000. “I’ve known the White family for many years and it was a pleasure to represent Matt. I appreciate the faith and trust they’ve put in my firm,” Tracy Considine said. “Our firm has tried a lot of big cases over the years, and we only associate with the best trial attorneys. Coker, Schickel, Sorenson and Posgay is our firm of choice. It’s not a business, it’s a calling for us. Howard is proof of that,” Tracy said. Mr. White’s life was changed forever by the negligence of the defendant and the verdict that will ensure he has resources available for his ongoing healthcare needs. “There’s no greater feeling than knowing you’ve made a lasting difference in someone’s life,” Dan said.
