Abubakar Saddique v. Wal-Mart Stores East, LP

Case Background

On July 14, 2020, Abubakar Saddique filed a premises liability lawsuit against Walmart Stores East, LP, alleging negligence after he slipped and fell because of water on the floor while shopping.

The case was filed in the Florida State, Duval County, Fourth Circuit Court. Judge Katie L. Dearing presided over this case. [Case number: 2020-CA-003954]

Cause

Walmart Stores East, LP, is a Delaware corporation authorized to do business in Jacksonville, FL. On or around July 27, 2016, Walmart owned and operated a store at 6380 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205. At the time, Plaintiff Abubakar Saddique was a customer at the store. Walmart failed to properly maintain the store’s floor, allowing water to build up during regular business hours. As a result, Plaintiff slipped and fell.

Injury

As a result, Plaintiff suffered bodily injuries, along with pain and suffering, disability, and disfigurement. Plaintiff also required hospitalization, medical care, and nursing treatment. Additionally, Plaintiff’s condition worsened due to the aggravation of a pre-existing injury.

Damages

As a result, Plaintiff experienced mental anguish, loss of the ability to enjoy life, and loss of earning capacity. Additionally, Plaintiff’s pre-existing condition worsened. Plaintiff sought damages from Defendant, along with interest, costs, and any other relief the court deemed appropriate.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Legal Representation

  • Plaintiff(s): Abubakar Saddique
    • Counsel for Plaintiff(s): Jeffrey D. Soud
  • Defendant(s): Walmart Stores East, LP
    • Counsel for Defendant(s): Martin Stern | Jenna Tracy Hackman

Claims

Plaintiff argued that Defendant knew or should have known about the hazardous condition. The condition either existed long enough or was obvious enough that Defendant should have identified it.

Defense

Walmart denied the allegations of negligence and asserted affirmative defenses.

Jury Verdict

On November 20, 2024, the jury determined that Walmart’s negligence was the legal cause of Plaintiff’s loss and injuries. The jury awarded Saddique the following in damages:

  • Past medical expenses: $20,000
  • Past non-economic damages: $50,000

The total award came up to $70,000 in this premises liability lawsuit.

Court Documents:

Available upon request