Jury Rejects Pothole Injury Claim in Miami-Dade Negligence Case
Table of Contents
Setting the Scene
Angela Samuels lived in Miami-Dade County, Florida. On October 18, 2020, she drove her vehicle near NE 46th Street and North Miami Avenue. This roadway was under the control and maintenance of Miami-Dade County. As she traveled northbound, the road appeared normal, but hidden danger awaited.
What Went Wrong
While driving, her vehicle hit a pothole embedded in the roadway. The pothole was large and dangerous to passing motorists. Miami-Dade County was responsible for keeping the road in safe condition. The plaintiff claimed the County either knew or should have known about the pothole. However, it remained unrepaired. There were no warning signs or barriers to protect drivers. This lack of action led directly to the accident involving Samuels.
The Impact
The collision caused injuries to Samuels’s body and limbs. She experienced ongoing pain and physical limitations. Beyond that, her injuries affected her daily activities and emotional well-being. The pain and restrictions did not resolve quickly. They continued to interfere with her life.
Losses Suffered
Her vehicle was damaged in the impact. She paid for repairs and medical care. She missed work and lost income. The physical injuries caused suffering and emotional strain. The complaint described these effects as either permanent or continuing. Samuels expected more challenges ahead, financial, physical, and personal.
Key Arguments and Proceedings
Legal Representation
Plaintiff: Angela Samuels
Counsel for Plaintiff: David Lloyd Perkins
Defendant: Miami-Dade County
Counsel for Defendant: Korissa Lepore | Hunter R. Pratt
Allegations
Angela Samuels sued Miami-Dade County for negligence. She claimed the County failed in four duties: maintaining the road, warning of danger, repairing the hazard, and preventing the pothole from becoming dangerous. She asserted that these failures directly caused her injuries and losses. She asked the court for a judgment and requested a jury trial on all issues.
Defense
Miami-Dade County denied most of Angela Samuels’s allegations. It challenged her claim by asserting that she failed to meet all legal conditions required before filing the lawsuit, specifically under Florida Statute §768.28(6). The County argued that Samuels did not properly present a claim as required by law.
The County also raised several defenses. It claimed that Samuels’s own negligence contributed to the incident and that her failure to wear a seatbelt may have worsened her injuries. It stated that a third party, not under County control, may have caused the damages. The County asserted its right to reduce or offset any damages using Florida statutes related to collateral sources, no-fault benefits, and injury thresholds.
Jury Verdict
On April 1, 2025, the jury returned a verdict in favor of the Defendant, Miami-Dade County. The jury found that the County was not liable for the injuries or damages claimed by the Plaintiff, Angela Samuels. Accordingly, the Court entered judgment for the Defendant. No damages were awarded to the Plaintiff.