Earlier this month, Dominque Thomas, who suffered a complex ankle fracture that required surgery, reached confidential settlements with Big Air inflatable amusement center and Ninja Jump, the manufacture of the Ninjasaur inflatable double slide. The settlements were the result of a lawsuit filed after Dominque’s left foot was caught in an uncovered opening at the bottom of Big Air’s feature slide, the Ninjasaur.
After her injury, Dominque sought representation from Terrell • Hogan attorney Chris Shakib who prosecuted the claim. Shakib discovered three other lawsuits for incidents that occurred on August 27, 2011, December 23, 2011, and July 3, 2012; each was filed by a customer who suffered a left leg injury while riding the Ninjasaur slide. Largely because of the 3 prior injuries, the judge overseeing Dominque’s case permitted Shakib to seek punitive damages. In Florida, courts are careful about permitting personal injury plaintiffs to seek punitive damages. Earlier this year, Shakib consulted with the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) about the Ninjasaur double slide, and the Commission’s investigation is still ongoing.
“I’m glad that justice was served, and I hope my case helps keep other people from being hurt in the future,” said Dominque about the settlements.
Every day, we at Terrell • Hogan, represent victims of personal injury and wrongful death as they seek justice, but helping prevent accidents and injuries is also a constant focus. Lawsuits we have pursued for deserving victims have prompted safety changes, but that came after the accidents and injuries happened. We think it’s important to try to find ways to prevent injuries and wrongful deaths before they happen. Terrell • Hogan will continue to repeat information about recalls of defective and dangerous products to help keep you informed and safe.
Big Air was a Big Danger