A Saskatchewan farmer who cut off his fingers to free himself from a rock picker is suing the implement’s manufacturer for at least $250,000.
Bruce Osiowy of Abernethy filed suit against Degelman Industries Ltd. on Sept. 20, claiming the company was negligent in its design of the rock picker, particularly the transport arms.
He also alleged Degelman was negligent in failing to warn consumers of the danger involved in using the machine.
Osiowy was caught in his 1976 model R570 rock picker for 66 hours beginning June 5, 2003, after the transport arms became wedged between the frame and picking grill.
Osiowy’s left hand became trapped while he was manually freeing one of the arms. He used a jackknife to cut off three fingers and part of his left hand.
His hand was later amputated above the wrist.
According to court documents, Osiowy has suffered extreme pain, depression, loss of income and loss of independence.
He said his capacity to earn income has been permanently affected by the amputation.
Degelman has not yet filed a statement of defence.
