A Florida man is seeking damages of $50,000 from Dunkin’ Donuts after he claims a toilet at one of the franchise’s locations exploded and covered him in feces and urine. The incident occurred in January of this year at a Dunkin’ Donuts in Winter Park, Florida, and left the plaintiff, Paul Kerouac, with what he describes as “severe and long-term injuries.”
According to court documents obtained by Fox News Digital, Kerouac filed a lawsuit against the franchisee, HZ O Donuts LLC, on Wednesday, alleging negligence on their part. Kerouac argues that the store workers were aware of the problematic toilet, as prior incidents had occurred, yet they failed to address the issue.
He also claims that the franchisee had a duty to maintain a safe environment for customers and failed to warn of any known hazards in the men’s room. The lawsuit further states that Kerouac suffered both physical and psychological damage from the incident and requires ongoing mental health care and counseling.
The lawsuit makes several claims of negligence against the franchisee, including failing to properly inspect the toilet and failing to warn customers of the potential danger. It also states that their actions created a dangerous condition for both Kerouac and other customers. The lawsuit specifically mentions the traumatic experience Kerouac endured and states that he has ongoing physical and emotional pain and suffering as a result.
Kerouac’s attorney, Scott W. Spradley, stated that the plaintiff’s injuries have had a significant impact on his life and he is seeking damages for medical expenses, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. The lawsuit also asks for prejudgment interest, post-judgment interest, and costs of the legal action, as well as a trial by jury.
Dunkin’ Coffee & More is an Understatement
Paul Kerouac was using the restroom of a Dunkin’ Donuts in Orlando, Fla when he was injured by an exploding toilet, he was sitting on lifting him up and leaving him covered in 💩 urine and debris. Kerouac claims he suffered severe… pic.twitter.com/857elmQgef
— Brooklyn (@bklynborn1210) January 5, 2024
It is clear from the language used in the court filing that Kerouac and his legal team take this incident seriously and believe that the franchisee is at fault for his injuries. The lawsuit states that the franchisee had a duty to maintain a safe environment and failed to do so, resulting in harm to Kerouac. It also claims that the franchisee was aware of the faulty toilet and neglected to warn customers, putting them at risk as well.
In response to the lawsuit, Dunkin’ Donuts has not made a public comment at this time. It is unknown if they were aware of the faulty toilet and took any action before the incident occurred.
