HOUSTON – A docket control order was recently entered in a suit alleging a defectively designed piece of smoked chicken caused Veronica Pendleton to crack her tooth.
Seeking $50,000 in damages, Pendleton filed her suit against Pappas Bar-B-Q on April 30 in Harris County District Court.
According to her petition, on May 1, 2019, Pendleton ordered some smoked chicken from Pappas Bar-B-Q and took the food home to eat. While eating at home, Pendleton heard a crack in her mouth and immediately spit out what she was chewing.
Upon further review, Pendleton allegedly discovered a piece of metal, which she took back to the restaurant. A Pappas’ employee allegedly took possession of the item and sent it to corporate for testing.
Pendleton went to her dentist and learned that he tooth was broken and could not be repaired. The tooth needed to be pulled and Pendleton is now in need of a dental implant, according to the suit.
Pendleton is accusing Pappas Bar-B-Q of defective design, alleging the restaurant should have known the smoked chicken “would cause serious, potentially life-threatening” injuries to its customers.
Court records show a DCO was entered on Aug. 20, slating the case for trial on June 20, 2022.
Pendleton is suing for her pain, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, lost wages and medical expenses.
Houston attorney John Clark represents her.
Cause No. 2021-26182