Valparaiso woman files lawsuit against NIPSCO claiming negligence over tree-trimming
A Valparaiso woman filed a class-action lawsuit against NIPSCO, alleging negligence in vegetation management caused power outages.Summary
A Valparaiso woman filed a class-action lawsuit against NIPSCO on Friday, alleging the utility's lax vegetation management contributed to widespread power outages following severe storms on Aug. 11. Margaret Shragal, 77, claims the outages delayed her scheduled hip surgery, causing her "unnecessary and protracted pain and suffering." Attorney Kenneth J. Allen, representing Shragal, argued that NIPSCO failed to follow its vegetation management program, diverting funds meant for maintenance to shareholder value. The lawsuit seeks to hold NIPSCO accountable for negligence during multiple rounds of severe weather since spring. NIPSCO spokespersons stated they are focused on restoring service and will address allegations through legal channels. The utility reported over 60% of customers were without power at peak, with 317,000 affected by Thursday.
(Source：Chicago Tribune)