In a surprising turn of events, Disney has decided to waive its right to arbitration in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Jeffrey Piccolo, the widower of Kanokporn Tangsuan, according to NYPost. Tangsuan tragically died from an allergic reaction after eating at a Disney Springs restaurant in 2019.
As Reuters points out, the incident occurred at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, where Tangsuan informed the staff of her severe food allergies. Despite assurances that her order was allergen-free, she suffered a fatal reaction. Piccolo filed a complaint against Disney, alleging the company’s responsibility for his wife’s death due to the restaurant’s failure to accommodate her allergies.
Initially, Disney argued that the complaint was subject to arbitration because of a clause in Piccolo’s Disney+ subscription agreement. However, according to CNN, the company has now reversed its stance. Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, stated, “We have decided to waive our right to arbitration in this matter and will allow this case to proceed in court where a judge will decide the case on its merits.”
D’Amaro emphasized Disney’s commitment to customer well-being, adding, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic event and extend our heartfelt condolences to the Piccolo family. Our decision reflects our desire to take a more sensitive approach under the circumstances.”
The lawsuit alleges that Disney failed to ensure proper food safety measures for customers with allergies. With the case now proceeding in court, a judge will determine the merits of these allegations and decide on the appropriate course of action.
This incident highlights the critical importance of restaurants taking necessary precautions to accommodate customers with food allergies. Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant allegedly assured Tangsuan that her order was safe, but the tragic outcome suggests a lapse in their food safety protocols.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome of this case could have significant implications for Disney’s reputation and its commitment to prioritizing customer well-being. The company’s decision to waive arbitration rights may be seen as a step towards transparency and accountability, but the final judgment will shed light on the extent of their responsibility in this heartbreaking incident.
Image credit: Wikimedia
