A Wichita Falls woman has filed a lawsuit against Sam’s Club, claiming that a fall in the store resulted in significant injuries. The lawsuit, filed in the 78th District Court on Wednesday, alleges negligence on the part of the store due to a hazardous condition at the restroom entrance.
The Incident at Sam’s Club
Susan Awtry was shopping at the Sam’s Club located at 3801 Kell East Boulevard in Wichita Falls on December 26, 2024, when the incident occurred. According to the lawsuit, Awtry went to use the bathroom, where she encountered a change in floor levels between the store’s concrete flooring and the tile flooring at the bathroom entrance.
This elevation change, measuring approximately one-half inch, allegedly caused Awtry to fall, resulting in multiple injuries.
The lawsuit claims that the restroom entrance was not up to Texas accessibility standards, and that the change in flooring levels led to Awtry’s fall. A photograph included in the lawsuit shows the measured distance between the two floors.
The Injuries and Allegations
As a result of the fall, Awtry sustained injuries to her hand, shoulder, arm, elbows, head, wrist, leg, and foot. The lawsuit asserts that these injuries may be permanent in nature and have caused Awtry ongoing physical pain, suffering, and mental anguish since the incident.
Awtry’s legal team also claims that she has experienced disfigurement and physical impairment, which is likely to continue in the future.
In addition to her physical suffering, Awtry is seeking compensation for the emotional distress caused by the fall and the lasting effects of her injuries.
Seeking Compensation for Damages
Awtry is seeking up to $1 million in damages from Sam’s Club. The lawsuit alleges that the store’s failure to maintain safe conditions and adhere to accessibility standards led to Awtry’s injuries. She is represented by attorney David M. Nix in this legal matter.
The Importance of Accessibility Standards
This case highlights the importance of accessibility standards in public spaces, especially in areas frequently visited by customers.
The lawsuit claims that Sam’s Club failed to ensure that the restroom entrance met the necessary safety and accessibility guidelines, which may have contributed to the fall.
