Fox v. Sunmaster Products, Inc.

Terry E. and Billie May Fox (the Foxes) appeal two orders on summary judgment dismissing their suit against Sunmaster Products, Inc. (Sunmaster), and Ladder Industries, Inc. (Ladder). Terry Fox suffered serious injuries as a result of a slip on a stepladder on or about November 20, 1984. The Foxes sought damages from the manufacturer of the ladder, Sunmaster, and later from Ladder, the company which purchased Sunmaster. Sunmaster and Ladder are both California corporations.

In 1986, Ladder purchased Sunmaster for $320,OOO. No shares of stock were transferred. The purchase included the assets…