A Houston resident has filed a lawsuit against a local student housing company, alleging negligence and premises liability after suffering injuries from a fall on their property. On December 27, 2024, Lichol Ford initiated legal action in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, accusing Urban Student Housing, LLC of failing to maintain safe conditions at their property.
According to the complaint filed by Ford, the incident occurred on August 20, 2024, at a property located at 3412 Beulah Street in Houston. Ford claims she was injured when she tripped over a tree stump while turning to speak with a co-worker. The plaintiff asserts that there were no warning signs near the stump and that her fall resulted in severe injuries to her wrist, knee, back, and leg. "Defendant knew or reasonably should have known of the dangerous condition," states the petition, emphasizing that Urban Student Housing failed to take necessary precautions or warn invitees like Ford about potential hazards.
Ford's lawsuit argues that as an invitee on the premises for the benefit of Urban Student Housing, she was owed a duty of care by the defendant. The complaint accuses Urban Student Housing of multiple failures: not managing or maintaining safe conditions around the tree stump; neglecting to inspect and repair hazardous areas; and not implementing safety protocols as per common-law standards. Additionally, Ford alleges gross negligence on part of Urban Student Housing for proceeding with conscious indifference despite being aware of the risks posed by such conditions.
The plaintiff is seeking various forms of relief from the court. She demands compensation for past and future medical expenses related to her injuries, lost wages, physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, physical impairment, disfigurement, and loss of earning capacity. Furthermore, Ford requests exemplary damages due to what she describes as gross negligence by Urban Student Housing. The petition also includes a request for pre- and post-judgment interest along with court costs.
Representing Lichol Ford is attorney Ryan W. Steinhart from Attorney Brian White & Associates P.C., based in Houston. The case is presided over by Judge Brianna Janel Denmon under Case ID 2024-89251 in Harris County's 152nd District Court.