Jeffrey Hahn has filed a negligence and strict liability complaint against Freedom Boat Club, LLC, and Brunswick Corporation. The lawsuit was filed on May 28, 2024, in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida.
The plaintiff, Jeffrey Hahn, alleges that he sustained severe injuries due to a defect in the Mercury Marine outboard engine fitted on a boat rented from Freedom Boat Club. On July 22, 2023, Hahn rented a 2023 22-Foot Bayliner Trophy model boat named DRIFT from the Tarpon Springs location of Freedom Boat Club. While anchoring the boat at Anclote Key Preserve State Park for a swim, Hahn placed his right hand on top of the outboard engine to steady himself. Upon jumping into the water, part of his right thumb was traumatically amputated by the sharp tapered cowl air vent of the engine.
Hahn claims that both defendants were aware of the defect prior to his injury. Brunswick Corporation had sent out letters warning about injuries caused by the engine’s top cowl air vent as early as March 2023 but delayed issuing an official recall notice until October 2023. Despite this knowledge, neither Brunswick nor Freedom Boat Club took steps to correct or warn about the defect. Hahn asserts that Freedom Boat Club failed to inspect their fleet for defects and did not comply with safety recalls or notify their customers about potential hazards.
As a result of his injury, Hahn has undergone multiple surgeries and months of therapy. He now faces significant challenges in performing daily tasks such as tying shoelaces, using keys or zippers, and operating tools due to loss of grip strength and dexterity. He also experiences chronic pain and reduced sensation in his thumb which affects his ability to sense temperature and texture.
The plaintiff is seeking compensatory damages exceeding $50,000 from both defendants for medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of normal life activities, and permanent injury. Additionally, he demands pre-judgment and post-judgment interest along with costs associated with the lawsuit.
Representing Jeffrey Hahn is attorney Jacob J. Munch from Munch and Munch P.A., while no specific attorneys for Freedom Boat Club or Brunswick Corporation are mentioned in the filing. The case is presided over by Judge Ken Burke under Case Number: 24-002395-CI.