Passenger Sues JetBlue for Negligence
- A woman sues JetBlue after fracturing her ankle due to a seatbelt incident.
- She claims JetBlue crew failed to assist her properly, leading to the injury.
- The woman is seeking compensation for the lack of assistance during the incident.
A Long Island woman, Maria Mistretta, has filed a lawsuit against JetBlue Airways following a severe ankle injury sustained during a flight to the Bahamas. The incident occurred on July 23, 2022, when Mistretta reportedly became entangled in a hanging seatbelt while attempting to move into the aisle, resulting in a fractured ankle. The lawsuit details that as she fell, her foot twisted, leading to significant injury. Following the accident, Mistretta and her husband, Salvatore, requested medical assistance from the flight crew, including a first aid kit and ice. However, they were allegedly informed that these items were "packed up" and inaccessible for the duration of the flight. The couple claims they were forced to wait until all other passengers disembarked before receiving any help, and when they were finally able to leave the aircraft, they were provided with a "broken" wheelchair that offered inadequate support. Upon landing in Nassau, JetBlue personnel reportedly advised against calling an ambulance, suggesting instead that the couple return to New York for medical evaluation. This decision necessitated multiple gate changes and navigating customs without assistance, all while using the inadequate wheelchair. The couple's attempts to secure basic medical supplies, such as ice and bandages, were also denied by JetBlue staff. After returning to New York, Mistretta was diagnosed with a right ankle fracture and other complications. The couple is seeking $170,000 in damages related to the incident. JetBlue has been contacted for comment regarding the lawsuit.