Man blames poor lighting for fall

CHARLESTON –A man alleges he suffered severe shoulder injuries when he fell in an entryway due to inadequate lighting.

Kermit Lee Holstein Sr. filed a lawsuit Aug. 22 in Kanawha Circuit Court against Haddad's Professional Building in Charleston.

In his complaint, Holstein alleges he accompanied his wife inside the Thomas Sleep Disorder Center for an appointment on Aug. 23, 2012. When the couple attempted to leave the center, the sun had set and it was dark outside, according to the complaint. There was no outdoor lighting under the exit doors at the time and as Holstein stepped out, he began to fall backward, the suit states. He reached back in an attempt to catch himself on the railing and seriously injured his shoulder, the complaint says.

In addition to his shoulder injuries, Holstein alleges he incurred medical costs, lost his physical ability, experienced pain and suffering, endured emotional distress and mental distress and suffered mental anguish.

In his complaint, Holstein seeks an unspecified judgment, plus attorney fees and costs.

Michael L. Myers of Myers and Perfater in Charleston is representing Holstein.

Circuit Judge Tod J. Kaufman has been assigned to the case.

Kanawha Circuit Court case number 14-C-1521