A Sonoma County woman is suing Costco for over $14 million, alleging that a heavy display fell on her while shopping, causing life-altering injuries. The incident, which took place in March at the Santa Rosa Costco, has sparked a lawsuit that now sits in federal court.
According to court documents, Sadie Novotny of Santa Rosa was browsing the liquor section with her husband when a floor-model liquor cabinet fell on her without warning. She claims she attempted to catch the cabinet to stop its fall, but suffered immediate injuries to her right shoulder, forearm, hand, fingers, and lower back. More alarmingly, Novotny says she sustained a traumatic brain injury as a result.
The lawsuit, initially filed in California Superior Court for Alameda County, was moved to U.S. District Court for Northern California on June 5. Costco has yet to publicly respond to the case, and USA TODAY has reached out for comment.
What Happened Inside the Store?
The complaint details that the cabinet was unstable, propped up on thin legs and placed on a worn wooden pallet, making it “dangerous and/or precarious”. Novotny says Costco failed to properly manage or secure merchandise, creating hazardous shopping conditions for customers.
A Costco incident report, included in the lawsuit, confirms Novotny reported the cabinet falling and described the immediate pain she experienced. The report appears to support her claim that she was injured by the falling display, though it does not assign blame.
Allegations: Negligence and Liability
Novotny’s legal team is pursuing claims under three main categories:
- Negligence: Costco allegedly failed to maintain a safe shopping environment.
- Premises liability: As the property owner, Costco is responsible for any injuries caused by unsafe conditions on-site.
- Product liability: The cabinet itself may have been defective or improperly secured.
Her attorneys argue that Costco not only neglected basic store safety protocols but also failed to properly train or supervise its employees, putting customers at risk.
The $14 Million Lawsuit Breakdown
Novotny is seeking $14,110,000 in damages, including:
- $5 million for emotional distress
- $5 million for pain, suffering, and inconvenience
- $2 million for future medical expenses
- $2 million for lost earning potential
- $50,000 for past medical bills
- $50,000 for lost income
- $10,000 for loss of household services
What Happens Next?
The case will now proceed through the federal court system, and it remains to be seen whether Costco will settle or go to trial. Given the high dollar amount and serious nature of the injuries, this case could draw further national attention.
The lawsuit adds to a growing list of retail liability cases, where stores are being held accountable for accidents and injuries linked to poor safety practices.
If the court rules in Novotny’s favor, the case could set a precedent for how large warehouse retailers manage bulky merchandise and customer safety in high-traffic areas.
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