Woman Suffers Traumatic Brain Injury After Slipping On Restaurant Mats

This case involves a woman who was injured at a chain restaurant. She tripped on a commercial mat at the restaurant causing her to fall back and hit her head. The woman suffered a traumatic brain injury and required long-term therapy to recover from her injuries. The restaurant’s mats were replaced periodically by a uniform and equipment rental company. It was alleged that the mats that the restaurant used were not in accordance with industry safety standards. A flooring expert was sought to review the case and opine on the proper type of mats that should be placed in high traffic areas.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Please describe your experience with commercial floor mats.

2. What type of mat should be used in this type of high traffic setting?

Expert Witness Response E-024042

I specialize in the testing of textiles and flooring. I have tested many characteristics of mats which include mat slippage, edge curl, movement under rolling and walking traffic. The American Design Drafting Association recommends a flooring surface to be firm stable and slip resistant. If the mats do not possess these characteristics, it is not in compliance with the law. I have been involved in several similar cases and have testified in court about slip and fall cases on flooring materials.