Hydraulics worker sues employer, client in injury

A Galveston County employee is suing an industrial firm on claims of injury liability.

Darren Bethea of Santa Fe, Texas, filed suit on April 2 against Diamond Hydraulics Inc. of Hitchcock in Galveston County District Court, alleging damages in an October 2013 workplace incident.

In his capacity as an employee of Diamond, Bethea was delivering a machine and/or hose crimper to Hufco, a customer of the defendant, on or about Oct. 1, 2013. The suit states that the apparatus fell on the plaintiff and injured him as it was being transferred from a truck.

According to the complaint, Bethea was unable to perform his work duties as a result of the accident. He filed a claim for worker’s compensation according to Texas state law, and also filed a claim against Hufco.

The plaintiff asserts that he was discouraged by his employer from following through with both his claim against Hufco and his application for benefits; that Diamond attempted to interfere with his medical attention and threatened termination. His grievance alleges retaliation, deceptive action and violation of employment law.

Citing severe physical pain and mental anguish, disfigurement and impairment, medical expenses, and loss of wages and earning capacity, the plaintiff seeks: compensation in excess of $1 million; exemplary damages; pre- and post-judgment interest; attorney’s fees; expenses; and costs. Bethea is represented by attorney Lawrence Tylka of Tylka Law Center in League City.

Galveston County District Court case no. CV-0073972