TV actor Brandon Eaton is suing Physio-Control Inc. for Los Angeles personal injury. Eaton was injured when he was accidentally zapped with a real defibrillator while shooting an episode of "Miami Medical" at Warner Brothers studio last year.
Another actor was supposed to use a defibrillator prop on Eaton's chest. Instead, the plaintiff says he was shocked by a medical device, which applied actual electrical charges to his body. Eaton claims that the incident could have killed him.
Eaton was transported to the emergency room. Although he did not sustain permanent physical injuries, he has had to undergo counseling for flashbacks and anxiety. The experience has also made him anxious about being an actor. According to his Los Angeles injury lawyer, Eaton now second guesses the use of props on a set when he goes to work.
Eaton is seeking unspecified damages and medical costs for loss of earning capacity and income from the defibrillator manufacturer, which he claims either knew or should have known that the production company, which ordered the medical device, lacked the experience, training, and knowledge to determine whether or not the device was a prop or real.
Eaton is known for recurring roles on "The Secret Life of the American Teenager" and "Dexter."
Los Angeles Personal Injury
Manufacturers can be held liable for California products liability if a defective or dangerous product caused someone's injuries or deaths. The makers of products have a duty of care to make products that are safe for use. If there are any risks involved, they must provide appropriate warning to users.
'Miami Medical' actor sues for 2009 mishap, Glendale News-Press, October 25, 2010
Dexter Star Sues Show, Claims He Could Have Died, WOOEB, October 6, 2010
