Orlando, FL – The Walt Disney Co. has decided it will face a courtroom trial for a wrongful death claim, marking a significant pivot from its previous stance which sought arbitration. This development stems from a fatal incident involving a guest who suffered an allergic reaction after dining at a restaurant in the Disney Springs shopping area.
Jeffrey Piccolo initiated the lawsuit after his wife tragically passed away due to the allergic reaction in October. It was reported that despite assurances from the restaurant staff at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant about the absence of allergens, his wife reacted severely to undisclosed nut and dairy ingredients.
Disney, which owns the premises of the restaurant but does not manage its day-to-day operations, originally claimed exemption from liability. The company argued that because it only acts as a property lessor for Raglan’s operations, it should not be held accountable for the incident. This claim was part of Disney’s initial push to have the case resolved in arbitration rather than in court.
The decision to forego arbitration was explained by Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, emphasizing the sensitive nature of the situation. D’Amaro expressed the company’s intention to seek a speedy resolution out of consideration for the family’s profound loss. This marked a notable shift in Disney’s approach, moving away from legal technicalities towards a more empathetic handling of the case.
Disney had previously contended that Piccolo was bound by an arbitration clause included in his Disney+ subscription terms. The company mentioned that the clause was applicable since Piccolo used his Disney+ account and other company services, including purchasing tickets on Disney’s website in the same year.
The legal battle highlights broader implications regarding consumer rights and corporate responsibilities, particularly in how companies manage liable claims related to services indirectly offered under their brand. This lawsuit includes demands exceeding $50,000, reflecting the significant impact and the tragic nature of the incident.
Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, especially involving large corporations and indirect service liabilities. The decision to handle the matter in court also opens Disney up to public scrutiny regarding its operational policies and response strategies in sensitive situations.
As the legal proceedings are set to unfold, all eyes will be on how Disney navigates the complexities of this lawsuit and its repercussions on the company’s public image and guest relations. With a court trial now on the books, more details are expected to be unveiled, offering deeper insights into the tragic occurrence and the ensuing legal battle.