Robert Hetsler, et al. v. Ford Motor Company, et al.

Case Background

Plaintiff Robert Hetsler, filed the product liability lawsuit on April 24, 2020, in the Florida State Circuit Court of Duval County (Case number: 2020-CA-002410). Judge Waddell A. Wallace III presided over the case.

Cause

On November 6, 2017, Robert Hetsler purchased a 2016 Ford Roush Mustang (VIN #1FA6P8CF9G5247461) from World Imports USA in Jacksonville, Florida. The vehicle had less than 1,000 miles on its odometer and only one previous owner. World Imports USA informed Hetsler that the car was free of defects and safe for use, without providing any warnings regarding potential fire danger. Ten days later, on November 16, 2017, Hetsler was seated in the vehicle in a parking lot behind Southbank Pharmacy in Jacksonville. Suddenly, a fire ignited outside the engine compartment. The fire rapidly engulfed the entire vehicle, including the passenger compartment. When Jacksonville Sheriff's Office and Fire Rescue arrived at the scene, they found the vehicle consumed by fire and Hetsler approximately 100 feet away, disoriented and severely burned.

Injuries

Hetsler suffered catastrophic third and fourth-degree burns over approximately 74% of his body, from his hairline to his belly button. Only the front of his face to his collarbone remained unscathed. Despite extensive skin damage, he did not sustain significant lung damage or facial burns. He was transported to UF Health Shands Burn Center for treatment and remained in a coma in intensive care for at least six months. Doctors provided inpatient intensive care for nearly 18 months before releasing Hetsler in May 2019. His injuries required amputation of both hands. He also suffered from disc impingement in his cervical spine, required a tracheostomy, and needed regular assistance with daily living activities. Following his discharge, Hetsler underwent extensive therapy and treatment to regain some functionality. He continues to require regular medical follow-ups and underwent numerous surgeries.

Damages

Due to the fire and his injuries, Hetsler incurred extensive medical expenses from his prolonged hospitalization, multiple surgeries, and ongoing medical care. His thriving businesses were devastated, causing significant financial harm. He lost earnings and earning capacity due to his injuries' impact on his professional life. Hetsler suffered permanent disfigurement, disability, pain and sufferin