WHEELING – A woman is suing Hiler Buffalo after she claims she was injured at the post office when it allegedly failed to properly maintain a handrail.
On July 29, 2014, Deborah L. Harper was walking in a non-negligent fashion up the interior steps at the Chester Post Office when the stair railing gave way and she was flung through the glass wall due to the unsafe condition of the interior steps handrail, according to a complaint filed in 2016 in Hancock Circuit Court and removed to federal court on Oct. 12.
Harper claims as a result of the defendant’s failure to properly maintain the stair railing, she sustained serious and severe injuries, including lacerations and fractures, resulting in excessive bleeding and injuries to her head, neck, shoulders, left hand, right foot, ankle and pieces of glass throughout her body. She also began suffering from anxiety.
The incident occurred as a result of the careless, negligent conduct of the defendant, according to the suit.
Harper claims the defendant failed to properly maintain the stair railing in a safe condition; failed to properly inspect the railing; failed to maintain the premises in a good and safe condition; failed to comply with applicable laws and regulations; failed to exercise the degree of care required; and was otherwise negligent.
The plaintiff also suffered property loss in the form of a lost bracelet; bodily injury; medical bills; pain and suffering; loss of well being; loss of enjoyment of life; and activities of daily living; and impairment of overall health, strength and vitality, according to the suit.
Harper is seeking compensatory damages. She is being represented by James G. Connolly.
Hiler is represented by David L. Wyant of Bailey & Wyant.
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia case number: 5:17-cv-00156