Even the most lighthearted events can turn dangerous if the people in charge don’t use proper care. As part of Light Up Night 2024, the unofficial kickoff to Pittsburgh’s holiday season, the Pirates held a downtown version of the Pierogi Races that the team features during games at PNC Park. For those unfamiliar, these races involve a few people in plush mascot-style pierogi costumes running around the ballpark. 

Belinda Brown decided to join the “Running of the Pierogis,” but wound up requiring medical treatment rather than going home with a fun holiday memory. In a lawsuit against the legal entity that owns the Pirates, Brown says she slipped and fell on a wet, unsecured rubbery mat placed at the start of the race. As a result, Brown claims that she has suffered a series of injuries to her left shoulder and other parts of her body. The lawsuit also alleges that she has experienced anxiety and depression stemming from the fall. 

Slip and fall accidents are common and can occur almost anywhere, including on commercial and public properties. Unlike many premises liability actions, Brown’s claim does not involve a fixed business location, but a small area set up for a one-night event. Her complaint includes a photo of the mat in question. Gathering this type of information at the scene can be critical in a slip-and-fall claim, especially when the setup is temporary. 

In Brown's case, the focus will likely be on whether Pittsburgh Associates (the limited partnership that owns the Pirates) exercised due care. Key factors will include the condition of the weather on the day, the placement and maintenance of the mat, and whether preventive measures were taken to address potential risks.

A successful personal injury lawsuit or settlement could result in compensation for Brown's medical expenses, lost income and emotional distress. If you’ve been injured because of a dangerous condition at a store, restaurant or an event organized by a business, you might be entitled to payment that addresses your damages.

Matthew R. Zatko, Attorney at Law represents Pennsylvania clients in personal injury claims arising out of slip and fall incidents. Please call 814-443-1631 or contact me online if you were hurt due to someone else’s negligence. My firm is located in Somerset and serves Indiana, Bedford, Cambria and Somerset counties.