A truck driver has filed a lawsuit against a tire manufacturing giant, alleging negligence that led to severe injuries. Ralph Spearman filed the complaint in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, on June 19, 2024, against Hankook Tire America Corporation.
According to the court documents, Ralph Spearman was working as a truck driver for Daceway Trucking when he went to pick up a shipment of tires from Hankook Tire America's premises on January 25, 2023. The tires were destined for Flynn Tires in Carnegie, PA. Spearman claims that the employees of Hankook Tire America improperly loaded his truck by stacking the tires against the rear door instead of securing them properly at the front. This negligent loading allegedly caused the tires to fall on him when he opened the rear door upon arrival at Flynn Tires.
The complaint details several accusations against Hankook Tire America Corporation and its employees. It asserts that they failed to inspect and identify potential hazards associated with their loading practices and did not provide adequate safety warnings about the condition of the load. Furthermore, it alleges that they violated sections 323 and 324A of the Restatement of Torts by creating a dangerous condition and failing to correct it despite being aware or should have been aware of it.
Spearman's injuries are described as severe and permanent, including concussion, post-concussion syndrome, cervical disc injuries requiring surgical repair, shoulder injuries, mental anxiety, anguish, and significant shock to his nervous system. He claims these injuries have resulted in substantial pain and suffering that will likely continue into the future. Additionally, he states that he has incurred considerable medical expenses and will continue to do so indefinitely. The injuries have also purportedly impacted his ability to work and enjoy life’s pleasures.
In light of these allegations, Spearman is seeking judgment against Hankook Tire America Corporation for an amount exceeding $50,000. He demands compensation for medical expenses, loss of earnings and earning power, physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of life's pleasures and activities, as well as any other financial expenses related to treating his injuries.
The attorneys representing Ralph Spearman are Anthony J. Giannetti (Pa. Id. No. 318225) and James L. Cartwright (Pa. Id. No. 334097) from Swartz Culleton PC law firm based in Pittsburgh.