While Port Arthur local Paul Keithen, owner of A.K.’s Auto Shop, managed to show up for trial, the man suing him, Bruce Digby, who was allegedly burned while pouring gas into an automobile, did not.
As previously reported, the suit was filed through attorney Curtis Leister of the Beaumont law firm Reaud, Morgan & Quinn on Nov. 16, 2011, in Jefferson County District Court.
The case was slated to go to trial Monday, Sept. 9, but the plaintiff was a no show, prompting presiding Judge Gary Sanderson, 60th District Court, to continue the case, according to a courthouse official.
The lawsuit alleges that on Sept. 29, 2011, Digby was working at the auto shop pouring gasoline into a vehicle’s carburetor to prime the engine. At the same time, an auto shop employee would crank the engine after Digby stepped away.
“This was done several times,” the suit states. “However, on the last occasion, the defendant’s employee cranked the engine while Digby was still pouring…”
An explosion ensued, burning Digby, according to the complaint.
The suit states that Keithen is liable for his employee’s negligent actions.
The plaintiff is suing for his alleged past and future medical expenses, mental anguish, pain, impairment, disfigurement and lost wages, plus all court costs.
Case No. B191-360
Plaintiff a 'no show' for own personal injury trial
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