The mother of a 13-year-old boy is suing Wal-Mart for improperly assembling a bicycle.
Lisa Willyard, on behalf of her son Tony Willyard, claims workers at the Cahokia Wal-Mart failed to properly tighten the handlebar on a Next-Dynacraft bike, according to a complaint filed June 4 in St. Clair County Circuit Court. She bought the bike June 1, 2006.
During Tony Willyard's first ride June 4, 2006, the handle bars "detached from the steering stem, causing Plaintiff to lose control of the bicycle, flip over the handle bars, and strike the ground, hitting his right shoulder on the curb, and causing Plaintiff severe and permanent injuries," the complaint states.
The child suffered a right scapular fracture, torn labrum, an AC joint injury, as well as injuries to his back, collarbone, head and neck, the complaint also states.
Willyard claims the bike was sold with the wedge draw bolt, steering stem and wedge nut improperly installed. She also claims the rear brakes were inadequate or non-functioning.
Seeking in excess of $50,000 in damages, Willyard is represented by David N. Damick of St. Louis.