Ford Fire Case: Jury Returns $104.6 Million Verdict
In an unprecedented verdict that marks a significant moment in automotive and legal history, a jury has awarded Robert Hetsler, a Jacksonville businessman, $104.6 million in a lawsuit against the automotive giant Ford Motor Co. The verdict comes after a harrowing incident in 2017 where Hetsler suffered catastrophic injuries from a fire in his 2016 Ford Roush Mustang, which left him with burns over half of his body and the loss of both hands.
In the wake of the monumental verdict, one of Robert Hestler’s attorneys, Andrew Knopf, of the Orlando law firm, Paul Knopf Bigger, shared his thoughts on the outcome and its broader implications: “This verdict is not just a victory for Mr. Hestler, but a clear message that justice can be served, even against the largest of corporations. It underscores the essential truth that no entity is above accountability, especially when it comes to consumer safety.”
A Fateful Night Turned Tragic in Ford Fire
On a quiet night behind a closed pharmacy on Atlantic Boulevard in San Marco, Hetsler’s life changed forever when his recently purchased Roush Mustang, with less than 1,000 miles on the odometer, suddenly burst into flames. The fire’s cause was closed as undetermined by the Fire Marshall, but the aftermath saw Hetsler fighting for his life, resulting in months spent in a coma, extensive hospitalizations, rehabilitation, and ultimately, the amputation of both hands.
The Battle for Justice Against Ford
Hetsler’s legal team proved that the vehicle’s failure and subsequent fire was due to defective and improperly installed under-the-hood components, pointing to Ford’s ultimate liability. Despite attempts by Ford and the dealership to dismiss the lawsuit, initially citing jurisdictional arguments and then years of hard-fought contested liability defenses, the jury’s verdict underscores the serious implications of proper manufacturing and assembly standards in delivering safe vehicles to consumers.
Implications for Automotive Safety and Accountability
This landmark case shines a spotlight on the critical importance of automotive safety and manufacturer accountability. The jury’s decision not only represents a victory for Hetsler, but also sets a precedent for future cases involving automotive defects and consumer safety. It underscores the need for appropriate quality control measures and responsible business practices within the automotive industry. Attorney Brent Bigger emphasized, “We see this not just as a win for Mr. Hestler, but as a catalyst for change, urging automotive manufacturers to elevate their safety protocols to prevent such devastating incidents in the future. Our hope is that this case marks a turning point, ensuring that safety is never compromised in the pursuit of cost savings.”
A Call for Enhanced Safety Measures for Ford
The verdict serves as a wake-up call to automotive manufacturers and Ford in particular, emphasizing the paramount importance of adhering to the highest safety standards and regulations. It highlights the potential consequences of relying solely on “process controls” and the paramount importance of consumer safety in the design and manufacturing processes. For many years now, Ford has focused solely on “process controls” for quality control as the defects and devastating consequences continue to pile up.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Ford Fire Reform
As Robert Hetsler embarks on his continued journey of recovery, the verdict offers a semblance of justice and closure for the harrowing ordeal he endured. Moreover, it catalyzes a movement towards more rigorous safety protocols and accountability in the automotive industry, potentially saving countless lives and preventing future tragedies.
Attorney Knopf added, “This case not only represents a significant legal triumph but also a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about consumer safety, corporate responsibility, and the imperative for systemic change within the automotive sector. We hope this verdict provides the Hestler family some closure and the resources to rise above this tragedy and journey through their vastly different future.”
Should you have questions about this case or a Ford fire case, please contact our office today.
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