Virginia woman sues Outback Steakhouse for $1.5M over slip

A Virginia woman is suing Outback Steakhouse for $1.5 million, alleging she suffered serious injuries after slipping on what she describes as mashed potatoes on a restaurant floor. The lawsuit, which has moved to federal court, centers on an incident that Tracy J. Renshaw, 56, says occurred on May 14, 2023, at an Outback location in Sterling, Virginia.

According to the complaint, Renshaw was walking to the restroom when she stepped on a slippery substance and fell face-first onto the hard floor. The lawsuit alleges the restaurant failed to maintain a safe environment, contending there were no warning signs about the hazard and that the spill was left unattended for an unreasonable amount of time. Renshaw claims the fall resulted in serious and permanent injuries, significant medical expenses, emotional distress, and a diminished capacity to work.

Outback Steakhouse has denied the allegations in its legal response. The company stated it had no knowledge of any hazardous condition at the Sterling location at the time of the alleged incident and argued it had no duty to post a warning. The chain also disputes the extent of Renshaw's claimed injuries. In its defense, Outback has...