Disney's Unexpected Move: Court Over Arbitration in Wrongful Death Case

Walt Disney Co has chosen to settle a wrongful death lawsuit in court rather than through arbitration. The lawsuit, filed by Jeffrey Piccolo, relates to the death of his wife from an allergic reaction in a Disney Springs restaurant. Disney initially argued arbitration but decided to waive this right.

Walt Disney Co announced on Monday that it will allow a court to decide a wrongful death lawsuit initiated by Jeffrey Piccolo, a Florida resident. Piccolo's case revolves around the death of his wife due to an allergic reaction at a restaurant in Disney Springs.

Disney had initially contested that the case should go to arbitration due to Piccolo's Disney+ subscription. However, in a statement to Reuters, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro said the company decided that a sensitive approach warrants an expedited court resolution for the grieving family.

The complaint alleges that the restaurant, Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, assured the family that their meal was allergen-free. Despite this, Piccolo's wife suffered a fatal reaction. Legal experts suggest Disney's unusual decision to waive arbitration indicates doubts about its applicability in this case.

(With inputs from agencies.)