Hardin man sues donut shop for $1M after ladder collapse

A Hardin County resident brought a lawsuit against a donut company after falling off a ladder.

Dalbert Boyette filed against Happy Donuts Corporation of McKinney, in Jefferson County District Court on May 5, alleging liability in a November 2014 incident.

According to the suit, Boyette was present at the defendant’s Port Arthur location on or about Nov. 25, 2014, when the manager asked him to change a light bulb. The court filing states that the manager provided a ladder to use; and that while the plaintiff was changing the bulb, the ladder collapsed underneath him, pinning his right leg and allegedly causing multiple fractures.

The suit contends that liability for the event lies solely with the donut shop manager. Alleging negligence in providing a ladder that was unsafe and failed to support the plaintiff; neglecting to supervise the plaintiff in the event of its failure; and failing to act as a reasonably prudent business would have acted under similar circumstances.

Alleging past and future pain and suffering, mental anguish, medical expenses and physical impairment, the plaintiff seeks compensation in an amount in excess of $1 million, pre- and post-judgment interest, attorney’s fees, expenses and costs.

Boyette is represented by attorney Cade Bernsen and Cody Rees of The Bernsen Law Firm in Beaumont.

Jefferson County District Court Case E-197081