An Ocala woman who claims she fell on an unmarked and hidden tripping hazard at Silver Springs State Park has filed a lawsuit against several organizations.
The lawsuit, filed by attorneys representing Elizabeth Palmer on May 13, names the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (doing business as Silver Springs State Park), Cape Leisure Silver Springs, LLC, and Marion County Parks & Recreation as defendants.
The incident in question allegedly occurred on July 19, 2024, while Palmer was walking through the Silver Springs State Park (5656 E Silver Springs Boulevard).
The complaint asserts that Palmer encountered an “open and unmarked tree stump” that was situated in a way that posed a “hidden and dangerous condition” to pedestrians.
Palmer claims she fell over the stump and suffered multiple injuries, including physical disability, permanent scarring, mental anguish, and a loss of the ability to earn money. The complaint notes that she has incurred significant expenses for hospitalization and medical care.
Palmer’s legal team argues that the park and its contractors had a non-delegable duty to maintain the public areas in a reasonably safe condition.
The suit alleges negligence on several fronts, including a failure to secure, mark, or cover the stump and a failure to warn the public of its presence.
Palmer is seeking a jury trial and damages in excess of $50,000, exclusive of interest and attorney’s fees.