A devastating car accident has led to a legal battle in Pinellas County, Florida. On June 10, 2024, Joseph J. Hamlin filed a complaint in the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court against John D. Ferrell and his minor son, Evan J. Ferrell, seeking damages exceeding $50,000.
According to the court documents, the incident occurred on August 25, 2023, at Park Street North near its intersection with 62nd Avenue North in Pinellas County. Hamlin alleges that Evan J. Ferrell was driving a 2023 Toyota vehicle owned by his father, John D. Ferrell when he caused a collision with Hamlin's 2016 Nissan vehicle. The complaint asserts that this collision resulted in significant bodily injury and suffering for Hamlin.
The lawsuit outlines several severe consequences for Hamlin due to the accident: "bodily injury and resulting pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, mental anguish, loss of capacity for the enjoyment of life," as well as substantial medical expenses and loss of earnings. The plaintiff claims these losses are either permanent or continuing and will affect him indefinitely.
Hamlin's attorney argues that John D. Ferrell is liable both individually and as a parent/guardian under Florida's dangerous instrumentality doctrine. This doctrine holds vehicle owners responsible when they entrust their vehicles to others who then cause harm through negligent operation. In this case, it is alleged that John D. Ferrell failed in his duty to ensure safe operation of his vehicle by allowing his minor son to drive it carelessly.
In addition to compensatory damages for medical costs and lost wages, Hamlin seeks punitive damages and an award covering attorney’s fees and court costs. He has also demanded a jury trial for all triable issues.
Representing Joseph J. Hamlin is attorney John F. McGuire from McGuire Law Offices P.A., based in Clearwater, Florida. The case is being presided over by judges from the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court under Case Number 24-002602-CI.