Woman sues Costco for $1 million

HARRISONBURG — A trial date has been set in the case of a Stephens City woman who is suing Costco Wholesale Corp. for $1 million after allegedly slipping and falling in its Frederick County store.

On Jan. 2, 2011, at 11 a.m., Sharon Croston slipped and fell in an aisle of the Costco at 251 Front Royal Pike, according to a November complaint in U.S. District Court in Harrisonburg.

She is suing the Costco Wholesale Corp., based in Washington state.

A jury trial has been set for Sept. 23-24 in Harrisonburg.

According to the lawsuit, Costco was negligent for improper maintenance of a floor with a wet substance; the failure to clean up and remove the wet substance; the failure to put up barricades or block off the area; the failure to use a mat or other slip-resistant floor covering; and the failure to warn or post signs of the slippery conditions.

Because of the fall, Croston allegedly sustained a herniated lumbar disc, permanent disability and a loss of earnings after having to undergo hospitalization and surgery.

Croston was not available for comment on Monday.

— Contact Rebecca Layne at rlayne@winchesterstar.com