Genovia Pope v. Carolyn Woodson (2011)

MEMORANDUM OF DECISION

This is a two-count civil action wherein the plaintiff is seeking money damages from the defendant for injuries and losses sustained at premises located at 218 Spring Street in New Haven, Connecticut, allegedly owned by the defendant.   The plaintiff, who claims that she was a tenant at the premises, alleges that she suffered personal injuries when a portion of a ceiling located in a common hallway fell and struck her on the head.   The complaint alleges that the ceiling was caused to fall by the negligence of the defendant and that the condition of the ceiling constituted a nuisance for which the defendant is responsible.

The defendant has been defaulted for failure to plead.   The defendant is not in the military service.   This court heard this case as a hearing in damages on May 11, 2011.

As a result of being struck by the falling ceiling the plaintiff suffered from head trauma, with associated post traumatic headaches and labyrinthine dysfunction, musculoligamentous cervical and lumbosacral strains and sprains, bilateral shoulder sprains with contusions, and contusions with a strain of the right hip.

In connection with her treatment for her injuries she has incurred medical and hospital bills totaling $14,283.74.

As a result of her injuries the plaintiff has suffered economic damages of $14,283.74, all of which is covered by insurance and which the plaintiff must re-pay.   The plaintiff has suffered non-economic damages of $10,000.00.   A judgment may enter against the defendant on both counts in the total sum of $24,283.74.

William L. Hadden, Jr.

Judge Trial Referee

Hadden, William L., J.T.R.