R & J Transport Inc. faces a serious legal challenge as it is accused of negligence leading to severe injuries. On January 2, 2025, David Lidster filed a complaint against R & J Transport Inc. in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois. The case was subsequently moved to the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on February 3, 2025.
The plaintiff, David Lidster, alleges that R & J Transport Inc., a Wisconsin-based company, failed in its duty by owning and operating a defective trailer without warning him of its dangers. As a result of this alleged negligence, Lidster suffered significant injuries including a degloving injury to his left hand and the amputation of his left ring finger. These injuries have reportedly led to substantial pain and suffering, emotional trauma, lost wages, loss of life's enjoyments, and ongoing medical expenses. Lidster's complaint initially sought damages exceeding $50,000; however, given the severity and continuing nature of his injuries and associated costs, he argues that the amount in controversy exceeds $75,000.
The legal proceedings were moved to federal court under the premise of diversity jurisdiction as outlined in 28 U.S.C § 1332. This statute allows for federal jurisdiction when there is complete diversity between parties and when the amount in controversy surpasses $75,000. In this case, Lidster is identified as an Indiana resident while R & J Transport Inc. is incorporated in Wisconsin with its principal business operations based there.
Lidster seeks not only compensatory damages but also relief for past and future medical expenses related to his injuries. His legal representation from Etzler Lawhead Legal Group aims to hold R & J Transport accountable for their alleged oversight which has had life-altering consequences for their client.
Representing R & J Transport Inc., attorneys Michael T. Clarke and Kevin J. LaBarge from Cassiday Schade LLP have filed a Notice of Removal seeking to transfer the case from state court to federal court citing proper venue under 28 U.S.C § 1391(b)(2) since the incident occurred within Cook County—a region covered by the Northern District of Illinois.
This high-stakes legal battle will be presided over by judges at the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois under Case ID No. 1:25-cv-1148 with both sides preparing their arguments vigorously.