When you’re an employee, just getting through your workday safely shouldn’t be a gamble. Ilona Mikaelian, who worked at a Glendale Galleria store, learned this tragically when a simple trip to the mall’s trash room led to severe injuries and a life-changing legal fight.
The Incident: An Unseen Danger
On November 7, 2014, Ilona and a coworker were taking out trash when Ilona slipped on an oily substance on the trash room floor. She fell hard, landing on her wrists. The oily residue on her clothes was undeniable proof that something was seriously wrong in that trash room. Sadly, this wasn’t a one-time accident; prior communications revealed that food court staff were mishandling cooking oil disposal.
The Mall’s Attempt to Deny Responsibility
As is common in slip and fall cases, the mall owner (Glendale I Mall Associates, LLP) and its management company (ERMC Property Management) denied liability. Their excuses were predictable:
- “No One Told Us”: They claimed ignorance about the oil hazard.
- “We Did Our Inspections”: They insisted their cleaning and safety checks were enough.
- Shifting Blame (Subtly): Their expert hinted that Ilona might have been careless, ignoring the evidence of repeated negligence on the mall’s part.
Ilona Fought Back – And Won
Ilona Mikaelian wasn’t going to be silenced. Her legal team proved the mall wasn’t just negligent but had created an ongoing dangerous condition:
- Unsafe Trash Room: Expert testimony showed the floor was dangerously slippery.
- Ignored Warning Signs: The prior email about oil spills proved the mall KNEW about the problem and failed to fix it.
- Impossible Inspection Schedule: Evidence revealed that it was physically impossible for security to actually inspect the trash room as often as the mall claimed.
The jury saw through the mall’s excuses, awarding Ilona a substantial $3.19 million to help with her staggering medical bills and lost income.
Important Lessons For Anyone Injured at Work
Ilona’s case highlights key things to remember if you’re hurt due to unsafe conditions:
- Prior Issues Matter: If a business has a history of hazards, they’re more liable for any injuries those hazards cause.
- Don’t Doubt Yourself: “You should have seen it” is a common tactic to make you feel at fault; if a danger is hidden, it’s their fault, not yours.
- Experts Are Crucial: Professionals in safety standards and accident analysis can expose a business’s negligence in a way the average person can’t.
The Complexities of Workplace Injuries
Ilona’s case was further complicated by the development of CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome). This debilitating condition can be triggered by injuries, making treatment harder and recovery far longer. It’s vital to:
- Get Thorough Medical Care: Seek doctors who are open-minded about potential causes of your pain, even if it seems unrelated to the initial injury.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of symptoms, appointments, and how your injury affects your work and daily life.
Injured at Work? You Have the Right to Fight for Compensation
Workplace injuries can have long-lasting consequences. If you’ve been hurt due to unsafe conditions, don’t let your employer or their insurance company bully you.
At Markosyan Law, we understand the complexities of work-related injuries and the tactics businesses use to minimize your suffering. We’ll work tirelessly to investigate the cause of your accident, expose negligence, and secure full compensation for your medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering. Contact us today for a free consultation. You deserve support and a fair chance to rebuild your life.
Disclaimer: Every case is different. This blog offers general information, not legal advice. Contact Markosyan Law for personalized guidance on your situation.
Reference: Original source
