Lawsuit Filed After Woman Injured by Parking Barrier at Hard Rock Casino Biloxi
Incident Overview
A woman visiting the Hard Rock Casino in Biloxi suffered an injury when a parking barrier struck her head. Following this incident, she has taken legal action against the casino after requiring neck surgery due to the injury.
Details of the Incident
The plaintiff, Lisa Paulk from Pike County, Mississippi, claims that the casino failed to properly warn or safeguard visitors against the hazards posed by unstable parking barriers. The incident occurred in January 2024 as she attempted to enter the casino’s VIP parking area.
Ms. Paulk was unable to raise the barrier with her own membership card. A valet then used another guest’s card to lift the barrier. While Ms. Paulk’s daughter drove the vehicle into the lot, Ms. Paulk followed on foot. At that moment, the barrier unexpectedly lowered and struck her on the head.
Legal Claims and Injuries
The lawsuit, which was filed more than a year after the accident, cites injuries to her neck and back along with ongoing emotional distress as reasons for the suit. The legal complaint notes that Ms. Paulk had no choice but to exit her vehicle and seek assistance due to the malfunctioning gate.
She is seeking both punitive and compensatory damages, including coverage for expected medical expenses, prolonged pain and suffering, permanent physical impairments, disfigurement, future travel costs, and additional related damages.
Property’s Response to the Lawsuit
The claim, filed by attorney J. Ashley Ogden of Hattiesburg, also states that the valet was aware of the barrier’s malfunction, which had reportedly been an issue for some time. The suit argues that the casino neglected to properly maintain and secure the parking gate, leading to this dangerous situation.
In response, the casino has denied any liability, suggesting that Ms. Paulk’s own negligence contributed to her injuries. They further contend that she is attempting to claim compensation for medical treatments related to a pre-existing condition.