In a dramatic legal battle, a Florida resident is taking on two major automotive companies over a terrifying car fire incident. Jonell Thomas has filed a lawsuit against Hyundai Motor America Corporation and Fitzgerald Motors, Inc., alleging negligence and seeking damages exceeding $50,000. The complaint was filed in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, on December 11, 2024.
The case revolves around a 2021 Hyundai Tucson purchased by Thomas from Fitzgerald Motors, Inc., which allegedly caught fire shortly after being serviced for a manufacturer's recall. According to the complaint, on December 30, 2021, Thomas experienced an alarming situation when her vehicle began emitting smoke from the engine compartment before bursting into flames. The plaintiff claims that she had to take immediate action to stop the vehicle while inhaling toxic fumes, resulting in bodily injuries.
Thomas accuses Hyundai Motor America Corporation of negligence in manufacturing and distributing a defective product. The lawsuit argues that the company failed to ensure the vehicle was free from defects that would render it unsafe for its intended use. "The Defendant knew or should have known of the dangerous condition," states the complaint. Furthermore, it alleges that Hyundai acted with disregard for safety by not adequately inspecting or warning about potential dangers associated with the vehicle.
In addition to negligence claims against Hyundai Motor America Corporation, Thomas also holds Fitzgerald Motors accountable for failing to properly repair or inspect her vehicle following its service visit. The complaint highlights that Fitzgerald Motors neglected their duty of care by not ensuring the Tucson was safe post-repair and created a hazardous condition through their work.
The plaintiff seeks judgment for damages due to bodily injury and related suffering such as pain, mental anguish, loss of earnings capacity, medical expenses, and more. She demands compensation beyond $50,000 along with interest and costs incurred during litigation. Moreover, Thomas requests a jury trial on all issues presented within this case.
Representing Jonell Thomas is Eduardo R. Latour from Latour & Associates P.A., based in Tarpon Springs, Florida. The case has been assigned Case Number: 24-005394-CI under Judge Ken Burke's jurisdiction at Pinellas County Circuit Court.