GRETNA – A motorist and her passenger are suing a car manufacturer claiming they were injured after the sunroof in the car they were riding in exploded.
Helen Wheeler and Lorita Lucas filed suit against Hyundai Motor America Corporation, Progress Insurance Company and an unknown manufacturer in the 24th Judicial District Court on June 19.
Wheeler and Lucas allege that on June 24, 2014 they were riding in a 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe owned and operated by Wheeler when the sunroof suddenly exploded, temporarily blinding the driver and causing her to lose control of the car, which caused the occupants to be shaken about the vehicle. The plaintiffs contend they were injured in the incident. Wheeler asserts there was a defect in the Hyundai Santa Fe’s sunroof when it was sold to her and that the defendants should be held responsible for her and Lucas’s injuries.
The defendant is accused of failing to inspect the sunroof prior to installation, failing to properly install the sunroof, failing to properly secure the sunroof, violating laws, failing to warn of the defect and breach of warranty.
An unspecified amount in damages is sought for physical pain and suffering, medical expenses, mental anguish and loss of enjoyment of life.
Wheeler and Lucas are represented by Pius A. Obioha of the ew Orleans-based Law Offices of Pius A. Obioha & Associates LLC.
The case has been assigned to Division O Judge Danyelle M. Taylor.
Case no. 750-802.