January 2025 – Okeechobee, FL

Steinger, Greene & Feiner is thrilled to announce a landmark legal victory for our client, Rachel Velie, who was awarded $6.2 million in damages following a negligence case against Walmart. This unanimous verdict is a testament to our firm’s relentless pursuit of justice and commitment to our clients, led by partner Neil P. Anthony.

Case Overview

The incident occurred on Black Friday 2019, one of the busiest shopping days of the year, at a Walmart store. According to the complaint, a store associate pulled a pallet jack through a crowded aisle without providing any warnings or taking safety precautions. The jack struck the plaintiff’s ankles, causing her to fall backward onto the jack’s forks and hit her head on the floor. The resulting injuries were severe, requiring extensive medical treatment, including cervical and lumbar fusion surgeries, and 17 pain-management procedures over five years.
Despite the challenges of an eight-month delay in seeking counsel and a three-month delay in treatment, the Steinger, Greene & Feiner team—led by attorneys Neil P. Anthony and Brooke Grogan—fought tirelessly to ensure a just outcome for Ms. Velie’s personal injury claim case.

Trial and Verdict

The five-day trial centered on Walmart’s alleged negligence, specifically its failure to adequately train staff and implement necessary safety measures for using pallet jacks in crowded stores. Expert testimony highlighted lapses in Walmart’s safety protocols, and the defense’s arguments were weakened by the absence of preserved video footage of the incident.

The jury’s unanimous verdict awarded Ms. Velie nearly $6.2 million, covering:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for past and future medical costs.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional toll of her injuries.

This verdict underscores the importance of holding corporations accountable for failing to prioritize customer safety.

Attorney Comment

“Walmart’s negligence in this case was clear” said Neil P. Anthony, partner at Steinger, Greene & Feiner. Speaking to Law.com, Anthony highlighted:

“This case underscores the need for companies to prioritize safety, especially during high-traffic events like Black Friday. The jury’s unanimous decision sends a strong message about accountability.”

Client’s Story

Rachel Velie, a devoted mother of eleven and an active member of her church community, shared her emotional journey during the trial. Her courage in recounting the impact of her injuries and the challenges she has faced since the accident was both moving and pivotal to the case’s success.

Celebrating Success

This outcome showcases the unwavering dedication and expertise of our legal team. Despite the initial challenges, including a pre-suit offer of just $65,000, our attorneys chose to litigate rather than settle, securing justice for our client.

At Steinger, Greene & Feiner, we are committed to fighting for those who have been wronged. This victory reflects our mission to secure the compensation our clients need and deserve. If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our personal injury attorneys are available 24/7 to provide the support and representation you need.