KFC appeals against disabled girl's payout
KFC has reportedly appealed against the damages payout awarded to a disabled girl who was left severely brain damaged after eating at their restaurant.
The family of Monika Samaan sought $10 million compensation from KFC in the NSW Supreme Court, claiming the then seven-year-old became ill after eating a chicken wrap in Sydney's west in 2005.
During the four-week trial in 2010, Monika's father Amanwial Samaan told the court he and his wife Hanna, son Abanou and Monika all fell ill with vomiting and diarrhoea after sharing the Twister.
Monika, who was in a coma for six months and in hospital for seven, is effectively now a quadriplegic and severely brain-damaged after suffering salmonella poisoning.
The hearing examined a series of poor hygiene practices at the Villawood store.
KFC denied the claim but in April, Justice Stephen Rothman found in favour of the family.
KFC lodged their appeal to the NSW Supreme Court today, according to Fairfax.
The family’s lawyer George Vlahakis said in April that KFC should just accept the court's decision.
"They represent themselves as great sponsors of cricket in Australia.
"It is a real pity that they will not abide by the umpire's decision.
"Instead they appear intent upon continuing to use their vast resources to defeat Monika rather than face up to their responsibilities which the court has found against them."
