Tuesday, March 28, 2006

My name is xxxxxx and I am a product liability attorney in Montgomery, Alabama.

I currently represent the family of a local minister who was killed when an awning on an oncoming 5th wheel apparently spooled out while in transit, punched through his windshield and struck him in the head.  During my research into alternative locking mechanisms to prevent these occurrences, I read your material online regarding your awning safety products and the references to frequent occurrences of awning failure while on the road.

I am writing you in hopes of getting additional technical information regarding your products designed to prevent awning openings on the road and also to get any specific information that you may have regarding incidents in which awnings have opened and struck oncoming vehicles-whether or not it resulted in injury.  I understand that the trailer involved in my case was manufactured by Hart, with a conversion by Outlaw, using an A&E 2 step awning.  I also understand that A&E may have redesigned their locking mechanism (from a friction plastic cam to a metal pawl and ratchet) because of such occurrences.

Obviously I am not in your industry and I am working to get up to speed on this apparent safety issue –  any information you can provide will be greatly appreciated.  Thank you in advance.