A motorcyclist is suing multiple entities after a tree fell on him while riding, causing severe injuries. Eric Konvolinka filed the complaint in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, on August 13, 2023, against Phillips Land Fill & Slag Inc., the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDot), Kennedy Township, and ten unidentified defendants.
According to the lawsuit, Konvolinka was riding his motorcycle on State Route 51 when a large tree or part of it fell onto him and his vehicle. The incident occurred at approximately noon near Robinson Boulevard in Coraopolis, PA. Konvolinka alleges that all named defendants were responsible for maintaining the safety of the area where the accident took place. He asserts that they failed to inspect and manage the trees adequately despite knowing—or having reason to know—that the tree was decaying and posed an imminent threat.
The plaintiff's legal team argues that this negligence resulted in serious and permanent injuries for Konvolinka. These injuries include multiple facial fractures, a broken nose, left orbital bone fracture, broken cheekbone, broken palate, and severe shock among other musculoskeletal damages. As a result of these injuries, Konvolinka claims he has suffered great pain and anguish and will continue to do so indefinitely. He also cites emotional distress and a diminished quality of life as further consequences of the incident.
Konvolinka's complaint outlines several accusations against each defendant. For instance, Phillips Land Fill & Slag Inc., PennDot, Kennedy Township, and John Doe defendants are accused of failing to maintain safe conditions around the premises by not trimming or managing vegetation properly. They are also accused of neglecting to warn individuals about dangerous conditions posed by decaying trees. The lawsuit states that these failures constitute negligence under Pennsylvania law.
In terms of relief sought from the court, Konvolinka demands judgment in his favor against all defendants individually or jointly for an amount exceeding $50,000 plus reasonable costs. This includes compensation for medical expenses incurred due to his injuries as well as future medical costs that may arise.
Representing Eric Konvolinka is Laura R. Signorelli from Morgan & Morgan Philadelphia PLLC.