Woman sues Outback Steakhouse for $1.5M over mashed potato fall

A Virginia woman is suing Outback Steakhouse for $1.5 million after allegedly slipping on mashed potatoes and suffering serious injuries at a Sterling location in May 2023. The lawsuit, filed in Loudoun County Circuit Court and later moved to federal court, claims the restaurant failed to maintain a safe environment for customers. Tracy Renshaw, 56, alleges she was on her way to the restroom when she stepped on a slippery substance, which she believes was mashed potatoes, causing her to fall face-first on the floor. The lawsuit states the restaurant did not warn customers about the hazard and allowed the spill to remain for too long, creating "unreasonably dangerous" conditions. Renshaw claims she has incurred significant medical costs and lost work capacity due to the injuries. Outback Steakhouse has not publicly responded to requests for comment. The lawsuit alleges negligence, stating the chain breached its duty of care by failing to remove the spill promptly or warn patrons. Renshaw seeks compensation for pain, medical expenses, and lost wages.