Injured spectator sues IndyCar, Grand Prix
The 16-page suit – filed by attorneys Justin C. Johnson and Christopher M. Rotunda – seeks damages in excess of $15,000 from the IndyCar Series, race owner/operator Green Savoree and Smith Fence Company.
According to the suit, Pinellas County resident Brigitte Hoffstetter and her husband, Gregory, attended the March 29 race. Hoffstetter was in the concession area about 100 yards from the track when a piece of debris flew from one of the cars. It soared over the fence and struck her in the head, resulting in a depressed skull fracture.
The suit alleges that IndyCar was responsible because of the series' aero kits – new bodywork on the front and rear wings that debuted during the race. The aero kits were designed to increase speeds and boost competition between manufacturers with detailed winglets and flaps.
The suit accuses the series of failing to test the bodywork properly before the season-opening Grand Prix and failing to ensure the parts were securely fastened to the cars. The result was bodywork that was "extremely dangerous and unsafe," the suit said. IndyCar mandated stronger bodywork and more support for the cars' wings before the second race of the season.
The suit alleges that the series and race promoters failed to sufficiently warn spectators of the danger, even after an early caution because of debris, and that the fence company failed to provide adequate barriers to keep spectators safe.
An IndyCar spokesman did not immediately return a request for comment, and a message with the fence company has not returned.
The suit, filed in the Pinellas County Circuit Court, demands a jury trial. It said Hoffstetter suffered pain, disability and loss of consortium as a result of the incident.
Hoffstetter's attorneys announced their intent to sue the City of St. Petersburg in a letter last month. Ben Kirby, a spokesman for Mayor Rick Kriseman, said the city will not comment on pending litigation. Matt Baker/Tampabay.com