A delivery truck driver has filed a lawsuit against FedEx, Bridgestone, and several related corporate entities after a dolly tire allegedly exploded at an Ocala distribution hub and caused severe, permanent injuries.
Philip Gordon filed the lawsuit against the major corporations, including FedEx Corporation, Federal Express Corporation, Bridgestone Americas, and numerous other related logistics and tire manufacturing entities, in the Fifth Judicial Circuit Court of Marion County on May 30.
The complaint seeks damages for severe and permanent injuries Gordon allegedly sustained during an incident that took place at the FedEx Ground Ocala distribution hub located on NW 35th Avenue Road two years prior on May 30, 2024.
Gordon, who was operating a truck that transported two trailers connected by a dolly, was on the premises to complete a delivery and pick up additional items.
Court documents state that as Gordon walked to the rear of his truck to unhook the dolly, a tire attached to the equipment suddenly and violently exploded without warning.
According to the complaint, the force of the explosion caused heavy pieces of the tire and surrounding equipment to strike Gordon, knocking him to the ground and causing catastrophic bodily injuries.
Gordon alleges that the dolly was owned and maintained by the FedEx defendants, who he says breached their non-delegable duty to inspect and repair equipment to ensure a safe environment for visiting drivers.
Furthermore, the lawsuit targets Bridgestone and its subsidiaries, claiming the tire was defectively designed and manufactured. Gordon argues that the tire contained inherent flaws in its inner liner, tread, and steel belts, which made it unreasonably dangerous and prone to spontaneous explosions during ordinary use.
The complaint outlines multiple claims of strict liability and negligence against the manufacturers for failing to warn consumers about the risks associated with the tire.
Gordon is seeking compensation for his permanent disabilities, disfigurement, loss of earning capacity, and extensive medical bills, requesting a trial by jury to hold the numerous corporate defendants accountable for the life-altering accident.