Legal Question in Personal Injury in California

flea bites at movie theater- health, personal injury

Can you sue a movie theater for poor sanitation? I live in Los Angeles and visited a very popular theater on July 4th. I woke on the 5th with flea bites all over my body, especially the areas that were in direct contact with the theater chair. I have missed work, school, a wedding. I can't go out without long sleeves and pants, so my daughter's birthday at the beach was cancelled. My doctor confirmed the ''rash'' was flea bites and I had no changes in my life that would cause such a thing- the only thing I did different was visit this theater. I have missed pay and had sleepless nights as the itching is so bad- I can't sleep. I want to be compensated- So, can I sue? If so, what are the reasons and can you recommend an attorney?


Asked on 7/11/07, 1:26 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Robert L. Bennett Law offices of Robert L. Bennett

Re: flea bites at movie theater- health, personal injury

You can sue. The question is whether you can win.

You may feel the flea bites came from the theater, but would a jury agree?

I can't recommend an attorney in Los Angeles, but the State Bar has lawyer referral services that will put you in touch with a competent attorney.

I suggest you report this to the Board of Health, even though 16 days have passed. If they agree with you, your case becomes very winnable.

Good luck!

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Answered on 7/20/07, 1:44 pm
Mitchell Roth MW Roth, Professional Law Corporation

Re: flea bites at movie theater- health, personal injury

If you are entitled to compensation, the matter is a small claims court matter. The theater has no liability unless you can prove negligence. In this case you must prove that the bites came from the theater, that the theater's flea problem was caused by a failure to use reasonable care, which in this case would require some prior notice of the problem and a failure to take steps to correct it.

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Answered on 7/20/07, 3:06 pm
Jonathan Stein Law Offices of Jonathan G. Stein

Re: flea bites at movie theater- health, personal injury

You may have a small claims court case but I am not sure you how you will prove the bites are from the theatre.

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Answered on 7/24/07, 10:07 am


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