HIDALGO COUNTY - FedEx, along with several other transportation companies, have been hit with a lawsuit accusing their drivers of failing to “exercise extreme caution in hazardous conditions” during the February freeze.
Seeking more than $1 million in damages, Christopher Pennington filed suit against FedEx Ground, GG’s Produce Transport, I Garza, J.B. Hunt Transport, Rich Transport and Go To Logistics on April 23 in Hidalgo County District Court.
According to the lawsuit, on Feb. 11 Pennington was traveling on Interstate 35-West in Fort Worth when he was involved in a catastrophic incident. Multiple vehicles were piled up, and the highway was blocked for hours as individuals were trapped inside vehicles.
The suit alleges the defendants’ drivers failed to recognize and account for road conditions and failed to exercise extreme caution in hazardous conditions, consistent with federal trucking regulations.
“These actions or inaction led to ensuing collisions,” the suit states. “Many drivers suffered serious injuries, and several tragically lost their lives. Plaintiff was among those who suffered severe injuries due to Defendants’ actions. He is fortunate to even be alive, as his vehicle was completely mangled and is nearly unrecognizable.
“Plaintiff faces a long road to recovery, and he brings this lawsuit for damages.”
Pennington maintains the defendants knew or should have known of the risk or risks associated, and their actions and omissions constitute gross negligence and malice.
He is suing for punitive damages, as well as damages for his pain, mental anguish, lost wages, impairment, disfigurement and medical expenses.
Pennington is represented by Daly & Black attorneys John Black, Andrew Dao and Kyle Malone. He is also represented by attorneys Charles Bush and Amber Chambers of the Bush & Bush Law Group and the Law Office of Bilaal Badat.
Case No. C-1550-21-B