Walker manufacturer Invacare sued over alleged brake failure

A LaPlace woman has filed a lawsuit against the manufacturer of her walker claiming the brakes failed causing her to fall.

Carolyn Davidson filed suit against Apria Healthcare Inc. and Invacare Corp. on June 20 in St. John the Baptist Parish District Court. The defendant removed the case to federal court in New Orleans on July 21.

Davidson states she suffered physical injuries as a result of the defective Rollater 4-wheel with seat walker, manufactured by Invacare Corp. and sold to her by Apria Healthcare.

Both incidents occurred in June 2010, with Davidson attempting to use the walker when the brakes failed causing her to fall.

The defendants are accused of failing to provide adequate testing of the walker and the brakes on the walker, failing to fully disclose the results of the testing, failing to provide a full range of dangers of the Rollater 4-wheel walker and failing to inspect and manufacture a walker with brakes that are sufficient for stopping.

The plaintiff is seeking damages for physical and mental pain and suffering, emotional injuries, court costs and attorney's fees.

Davidson is represented by LaPlace attorney Robert R. Faucheaux, Jr.

U.S. District Judge Martin L. C. Feldman is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:11-cv-01767