Overview
A Vancouver neuropsychologist with a childhood history of polio developed trauma-induced post-polio syndrome after slipping on trash in an Ontario grocery store. Following a trial, Loblaw was found liable to pay more than $1.5 million in damages.
Key Takeaways
- Verdict amount: More than $1.5 million
- Accident type: Slip and fall in a grocery store
- Primary injury: Trauma-induced post-polio syndrome
- Additional injury: Knee injury that healed uneventfully
- Long-term impact: Impaired ability to practise as a neuropsychologist
- Resolution method: Trial
- Legal outcome: Loblaw was found liable
The Case
Our client was a neuropsychologist from Vancouver who had suffered polio as a child but went on to lead an active and successful life. While visiting Ontario, the doctor slipped and fell on trash on the floor of the vegetable department in a grocery store.
The fall caused a knee injury that healed uneventfully. However, the trauma triggered a neurological cascade that resulted in post-polio syndrome and impaired our client’s ability to practise.
The case proceeded to trial, where Loblaw was found liable. Our client was awarded damages in excess of $1.5 million.
Why It Matters
This case involved consequences that extended beyond the knee injury caused by the initial fall. Although that injury healed, the trauma triggered post-polio syndrome that affected the client’s professional abilities.
The trial resulted in a finding of liability against Loblaw and an award of more than $1.5 million in damages.