Kirk Guidry and Scott Andrews settled a product liability case involving multiple burn injuries and deaths from a fuel-fed fire for a confidential amount. On August 6, 2002, five passengers were severely burned and two of them died from their severe burn injuries after their 2000 Chrysler/Plymouth Grand Voyager mini van (NS body 1996-2000) climbed upon and straddled a metal guard rail on Interstate 55 (I-55) in Kentwood, Louisiana, after sustaining a tire blow-out. A metal I-beam supporting the guard rail sliced the mini van’s unprotected high density polyethylene fuel tank which was located forward of the rear axle.
The Baton Rouge, Louisiana burn injury lawyers at Dué Guidry Piedrahita Andrews Courrege L.C. brought a product liability action under the Louisiana Products Liability Act, La. La.R.S. 9:2800.51, et seq., against the mini van’s manufacturer, DaimlerChrysler Corporation, alleging that the numerous skid plates, metal shields and other protective devices used on many all wheel drive vehicles and most SUVs are designed to prevent fuel tank puncture from guard rails, road debris, curbs, sign posts, etc., and were capable of preventing the fuel-fed fire that caused plaintiffs’ injuries, and therefore should have been incorporated into the design of the mini van’s fuel system. A claim was also brought against the State of Louisiana, through the Department of Transportation and Development for the unreasonably dangerous condition of the metal I-beams supporting the guard rail.
If you or a loved one have suffered severe burn injuries or wrongful death as a result of a car wreck and subsequent fuel-fed fire, contact the experienced Baton Rouge, Louisiana burn injury lawyers at Dué Guidry Piedrahita Andrews Courrege L.C.. Email Louisiana injury lawyers or call (225) 929-7481 to schedule a free consultation.