September 24, 2009 - Coed Suing Coyote Ugly Over Fall
A female college student alleges Coyote Ugly tavern employees in Nashville were responsible for her fall while dancing on a slippery bar top.
Brittany Barnes of Lexington, Ky., alleges in a lawsuit filed in federal court that Coyote Ugly employees should have taken steps to prevent the University of Kentucky student from falling a year ago, The (Nashville) Tennessean reported Thursday.
"They have a duty under Tennessee law to provide a safe place for their patrons," Barnes' attorney, Rob Shelton, said.
Shelton alleges Coyote Ugly workers should have kept the bar top dry and safe, given the tavern's penchant of inviting guests to dance on it.
"It should be kept dry just like the floor of the bar or the aisle in a grocery store," Shelton contends.
Barnes fell from the bar while dancing Sept. 19, 2008, and suffered an irreversible head injury, Shelton said. Barnes, whose age was not reported, is seeking $500,000 in damages from the company that operates the tavern.
The Tennessean said the 2000 film "Coyote Ugly" highlighted the tavern chain's use of attractive staff and bar dancing activities, leading to 12 Coyote Ugly bars opening nationwide.
The information and materials on this Web site are provided for general informational purposes only and are not intended to be legal advice. We attempt to provide quality information, but the law changes frequently and varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. The information and materials provided are general in nature, and may not apply to a specific factual or legal circumstance. An attorney and client relationship should not be implied. Nothing on this Web site is intended to substitute for the advice of an attorney, therefore if you require legal advice please consult with a competent attorney licensed to practice in your jurisdiction. All attorneys, unless otherwise noted in website, are not certified by Texas Board of Legal Specialization. See Terms of Use.