Area resident Robert Pate is suing several companies for more than $1 million in damages after he allegedly fell through a “clandestine storm drain” at a lodge.
The suit was filed Sept. 6 in Jefferson County District Court and names the Bishop’s Lodge Resort & Spa, Value Enhancement Fund II and Area Property Partners as defendants.
Sandra Pate is also a plaintiff.
According to the lawsuit, on June 30, 2012, Robert Pate was a guest at Bishop’s Lodge in Santa Fe, N.M., when he allegedly "fell through a clandestine storm drain, through no fault of his own.”
The storm drain was hidden and covered by a board, dirt and debris, which Pate claims was due to a lack of maintenance.
Furthermore, there were no warning signs near the drain to warn patrons, the suit alleges.
On top of punitive damages, Pate is suing for his alleged past and future medical expenses, mental anguish, pain, impairment, disfigurement and lost wages, plus all court costs and attorney’s fees.
Sandra Pate is seeking loss of consortium damages.
Keith Kebodeaux and Casey Hargroder of Kebodeaux & Hargroder in Beaumont are representing them.
Judge Milton Shuffield, 136th District Court, is assigned to the case.
Case No. D194-714
Man sues for $1M after fall through ‘clandestine' storm drain at lodge
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