A Sonoma County woman sues Costco Wholesale Corporation for over $14 million, alleging she suffered “catastrophic injuries” when a cabinet display fell on her at the Santa Rosa store.
The lawsuit, filed by Sadie Novotny, claims that on March 22, she was walking down an aisle at the Costco located at 1900 Santa Rosa Avenue when an “on sale” cabinet display fell, pinning her underneath. This incident, according to the lawsuit, resulted in “multiple, permanent, and severe injuries,” including a traumatic brain injury.
Novotny’s lawsuit alleges negligence, premises liability, and products liability on Costco’s part. Specifically, it claims the cabinet, described as having “thin legs,” was negligently displayed in a precarious position on a “worn” and “inadequate wooden pallet,” which created a significant risk for it to fall. The plaintiff asserts that Costco failed to “discover unsafe conditions,” warn customers about them, or properly train employees regarding the display.
The monetary compensation sought includes:
- $5 million for “pain, suffering, and inconvenience.”
- $5 million for emotional distress.
- $100,000 for medical expenses and loss of earnings to date.
- An additional $4 million for future medical expenses and loss of earnings.
The lawsuit was initially filed in Alameda County Superior Court but has since been moved to the Northern District Court at Costco’s request. Both sides are scheduled for a case management meeting in September.
