A delivery driver is suing an Ocala-based fire truck manufacturer following an incident where he was allegedly forced to jump from a trailer to avoid being crushed by a falling load.
The complaint, filed in Marion County by Kevin Taylor, names E-One, Inc. as the defendant and stems from an accident that allegedly occurred on April 16, 2024, at the company’s facility located at 1601 SW 37th Avenue. At the time of the incident, Taylor was employed with IR Staffing and was making a delivery to the E-One plant.
According to the lawsuit, Taylor was standing on the trailer while a forklift was being used to unload materials, which the filing describes as a customary practice for drivers making regular deliveries to the site.
Taylor alleges that an E-One employee operating the forklift acted negligently, causing the cargo on the trailer to fall toward him. To avoid being struck by the falling material, Taylor reportedly had to move quickly to exit the trailer and fell to the ground during the process.
The lawsuit contends that E-One failed in its duty to maintain a safe environment and ensure that its employees were properly trained to operate heavy machinery. Specific allegations of negligence include a failure to secure the materials on the forklift and trailer before they were moved and a failure to warn the driver of dangerous conditions.
Taylor claims that the fall resulted in bodily injuries, mental anguish, disability, and a loss of earning capacity.
The complaint further states that some or all of these injuries are permanent in nature or have caused significant scarring and the loss of important bodily functions.
Taylor is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 and a jury trial to determine judgment against the corporation for medical expenses, nursing care, and resulting pain and suffering.
Founded in 1974 by an industrial engineer, E-ONE is a manufacturer of fire apparatus and emergency vehicles, including rescue trucks, aerials, and custom fire engines.