Jocelyn M. Kerl has filed a lawsuit against SPF Real Estate, LLC, UA Management LLC, and Holiday Inn Houston S-NRG following a severe injury she sustained at the hotel premises. The complaint was filed on October 25, 2024, in the District Court of Harris County, Texas.
The case revolves around an incident that occurred on October 28, 2023, when Jocelyn M. Kerl visited the Holiday Inn Houston S-NRG as a guest. As she approached the entrance via the designated route for guests, she slipped and fell on a slick and wet sidewalk that lacked adequate warning signs or barriers. This fall resulted in severe and permanent injuries for Kerl. According to the complaint, the defendants had a duty to ensure the safety of their premises by inspecting for dangerous conditions or providing sufficient warnings about potential hazards. However, they allegedly failed to fulfill this duty, leading to Kerl's injuries.
Kerl claims that her injuries were solely caused by the defendants' negligence in maintaining safe premises and failing to warn guests of unsafe conditions. She argues that as an invitee on the property, she should have been protected from such risks by proper maintenance and clear warnings from the defendants. The lawsuit further asserts that the defendants either knew or should have known about the hazardous condition but neglected to address it or inform their guests adequately.
In terms of legal relief, Jocelyn M. Kerl is seeking compensation for various damages resulting from her injuries. These include pecuniary losses, past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering endured both in the past and anticipated in the future, mental anguish experienced previously and expected going forward, court costs, as well as pre-judgment and post-judgment interest. The plaintiff has requested monetary relief exceeding $100,000.
Representing Jocelyn M. Kerl are attorneys Sharon K. Cushingberry and Johnetta S. Cooper from Cooper & Cushingberry LLP based in Houston, Texas. The case is being heard in Harris County's 157th Judicial District Court under Case ID 2024-74545.