James Ednie’s sister, appointed as the wrongful death representative for Mr. Ednie, filed suit in federal court against FedEx Ground Package Systems, Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations and its various subsidiaries, and CLR Transportation. She alleged the defendants negligently caused or substantially contributed to Mr. Ednie’s death.
Mr. Ednie died in a head-on collision. A westbound FedEx tractor-trailer went through the median and into eastbound traffic, striking the minivan he was driving. Mr. Ednie’s significant other, Tanya Gooden, also died in the collision. Cameron Gooden, Ms. Gooden’s son, was riding in his wheelchair in the back of their minivan. He was flown to a Denver-area medical facility where he died from his injuries the next morning.
Alodie Gooden, Tanya Gooden’s daughter, filed a lawsuit on behalf of Tanya Gooden and Cameron Gooden late last month. Her suit was also against FedEx, Bridgestone, and CLR Trucking. An amended version no longer names CLR Trucking as a defendant. Both lawsuits filed in the U.S. District Court of Wyoming allege the front driver’s side tire of the FedEx tractor failed, which caused the tractor and its two trailers to strike Mr. Ednie’s van. The lawsuits also allege that two months before the fatal collision, the passenger side tire on that tractor also failed. The lawsuits go on to claim that the tire was purchased at the same time and was likely from the same lot as the faulty driver’s side tire. The lawsuits assert “Bridgestone’s tire was in a defective, dangerous condition at the time of its sale.” The Gooden suit goes on to state, “FedEx’s choice not to replace both steer tires … was reckless, willful and wanton, and demonstrated indifference to the safety of the motoring public.” Both suits are seeking damages “substantially in excess of $75,000,” which are to be determined at trial. Bridgestone has said in an email that the company takes product safety seriously.
When someone is injured or dies in a collision, financial recovery may be available. Such recovery is particularly important when permanent, life changing injuries are incurred. It is important to contact someone who understands the intricacies of the injured party’s right to recover. Abraham Watkins offers a free consultation to anyone wishing to pursue a claim for such injuries or fatalities.