Man cuts finger, sues knife manufacturer

A Louisiana man has filed a lawsuit against a knife manufacturer after cutting his finger.

Claiming the knife's locking mechanism did not work properly, Russ R. Ivy filed suit against Taylor Brands on Oct. 8 in Washington Parish District Court. The defendant removed the case to federal court in New Orleans on Nov. 17.

Ivy states he purchased a Smith and Wesson model CH0026CP knife from Wal-Mart in Bogalusa on May 20. According to the lawsuit, Ivy was injured in his first attempt to use the knife. He claims the blade collapsed and cut his right index finger to the bone while he turned a plastic screw.

He claims that the knife had a defect in the manufacturing at the bottom of the knife blade that extended longer than it should have and interfered with the lock's proper function.

The lawsuit argues the defendant is liable under the Louisiana Product Liability Act.

Ivy states the injury to his finger has caused significant numbness and pain, which has substantially changed his life.

He is seeking damages for loss of enjoyment of life, pain and suffering, mental anxiety and distress, physical injury, impairment of function, loss of life's pleasures, loss of recreational activities, change in life style, medical expenses, lost wages and loss of benefits, plus interest.

Ivy is represented by Charles R. Moore and Corey J. Hebert of Moore, Thompson, Lee & Broyles in Baton Rouge.

U.S. District Judge Helen G. Berrigan is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:10-cv-0437