A Massachusetts resident has filed a lawsuit against two Florida-based companies, alleging negligence that resulted in significant personal injuries. James Roderick initiated the complaint on September 29, 2025, in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, targeting TEAK, LLC and BIRCHWOOD INN LLC as defendants.
The case revolves around an incident that occurred on March 1, 2023, at the St. Pete Pier in St. Petersburg, Florida. According to the complaint, Roderick was struck by cargo being transported on a golf cart operated by employees of TEAK, LLC and BIRCHWOOD INN LLC. The plaintiff claims that both companies failed to ensure their employees exercised reasonable care while operating golf carts near pedestrian areas. Roderick’s attorneys argue that this failure constitutes negligence under Florida law.
The complaint details several alleged breaches of duty by both defendants. These include failing to inspect for pedestrians adequately, maintaining safe conditions around golf carts, warning Roderick of potential dangers posed by cargo transportation on golf carts, and properly training employees in safe golf cart operation practices. As a result of these alleged omissions and commissions, Roderick sustained physical injuries and incurred medical expenses.
Roderick is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 from each defendant for his injuries and associated losses. He asserts that the injuries have caused him pain and suffering—both physically and mentally—and have led to permanent impairments affecting his ability to enjoy life and perform work-related duties.
Representing James Roderick are attorneys Paul B Fulmer III and Stanton A. Fears from Morgan & Morgan Tampa P.A., based in Tampa, Florida. The case is identified under Case Number: 25-005447-CI.
Source: 25005447CI_James_Roderick_v_Teak_Complaint_Pinellas_County_Florida.pdf
