Woman sues Tesco after slipping on grapes in store

A woman who claims she suffered severe back injuries after slipping on grapes while shopping in a Tesco store has brought a High Court action for damages.

The action by Patricia Walsh, aged 45, of Shannondale Stud, Rehy, Carrigaholt, Co Clare, opened yesterday before Mr Justice Anthony Barr.

Ms Walsh has sued Tesco Ireland over the incident in the Tesco store at Kirush, Co Clare, on August 28, 2012.

Tesco denies the claims and pleads Ms Walsh’s injuries were her own fault or there was contributory negligence on her part.

In evidence, Ms Walsh said the fall occurred while she was in the fruit section of the Kilrush store. Becoming upset, she said her legs shot out from under her, she hit the ground, and was unable to get up afterwards.

The judge heard she was taken by ambulance to Ennis Hospital from where she was moved to Limerick Regional Hospital where she stayed for seven days. She said she had severe back pain and was treated with injections.

It is claimed she continues to experience serious back pain and has been treated with a spinal stimulator for that. She was on crutches for a time and continues to use a stick.

The judge heard Ms Walsh had been actively involved in sports and had played football with the Clare and Munster teams. She was part of the Munster team that won the Railway Cup three times, she told the judge. The case continues.