Brown V. Tg Automotive Sealing Kentucky, Llc

Case Background

On February 21, 2022, Ricky Brown filed a premises liability case against TG Automotive Sealing after he slipped and fell backward on the ice-covered premises. The case was first filed in Christian County Court. TG Automotive Sealing then moved it to the United States District Court, Kentucky Western (Paducah). The slip and fall case was assigned to Chief Judge Greg N. Stivers and referred to Magistrate Judge Lanny King.

Cause

Ricky Brown, then 64 years old, worked as a truck driver for Reliable Carriers. He regularly picked up auto parts from TG Automotive Sealing in Hopkinsville and transported them to the Honda plant in Lincoln, Alabama. Brown was notably morbidly obese, weighing 350 pounds at the time, which became significant in the ensuing litigation. On February 12, 2021, a winter storm affected the area. Brown arrived at TG Automotive to find the parking lot icy, describing it as a “virtual skating rink.” He had been there the day before and noticed similar conditions. Despite being aware of the slippery surface, he proceeded with his routine, which involved parking, checking in, and waiting to be loaded. After completing his check-in, Brown stepped outside and began walking down the stairs. As he approached the bottom, he turned and stepped backward to grasp the railing, attempting to navigate the icy lot. Suddenly, he slipped and fell backward, landing hard on his back. Initially, Brown struggled to get up and called for help, but no one responded. In desperation, he dialed 911 from the icy ground. Emergency services soon arrived, and he was taken to a local emergency room.

Injury

Brown, who had no previous history of back pain, expe