Reality television star Lisa Vanderpump has formally responded to allegations that she bears responsibility for injuries a handyman sustained while working at her Beverly Hills residence, asserting in legal filings that the worker's own negligence caused the incident.
According to legal documents obtained by TMZ.com, the 'Vanderpump Rules' star has denied all claims filed by Eric Nieto, who alleges he was severely injured in November 2023 while performing work at her 8,801-square-foot estate valued at $14 million.
In her legal response, Vanderpump contends that Nieto acted carelessly and was responsible for causing his own injuries. The reality star further argues that if any hazardous condition existed on the property, it would have been readily apparent to anyone present at the home.
Vanderpump is requesting that the court dismiss the case entirely and deny any financial compensation to the plaintiff.
The lawsuit stems from an incident in which Nieto claims he was hired to perform work at the mansion that required him to access the basement via an interior stairway. According to his complaint, his foot became trapped due to what he characterizes as poor maintenance of the stairwell, causing him to lose his balance and fall.
Nieto alleges the fall resulted in severe injuries to his lower leg and ankle. He has requested the court award him $195,000 to cover pain and suffering, medical expenses, and additional fees associated with the incident.
The case represents the latest legal matter involving the Bravo personality, who has built a television empire around her restaurant ventures and reality programming. The outcome of the lawsuit will hinge on whether the court determines the property owner maintained safe working conditions or whether the handyman failed to exercise reasonable care while performing his duties.
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Ava Hart
Ava Hart is a pop culture junkie and loves to share what's happening in Hollywood and what trends are taking the world by storm.
