A devastating workplace accident has led to a significant legal battle in Harris County, Texas. Gregory Jackson filed a complaint on August 9, 2024, against GenOx Transportation Inc. and Air Products & Chemicals, Inc., seeking justice for severe injuries sustained while working as an independent contractor.
According to the lawsuit filed by Jackson in the District Court of Harris County, the incident occurred on July 7, 2024. Jackson was hauling a trailer owned by Air Products & Chemicals that contained compressed oxygen. While closing the valve after delivering the oxygen in Georgia, the valve malfunctioned, causing liquid oxygen to escape at extremely low temperatures. Despite wearing protective gloves, Jackson suffered severe cryogenic burns to his hand.
The plaintiff's petition details that Jackson immediately sought medical attention at an emergency room and was subsequently referred to a burn specialist at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. The extent of his injuries was so severe that he faced potential loss of fingers.
Jackson accuses GenOx Transportation Inc. and Air Products & Chemicals Inc. of multiple counts of negligence, including failure to inspect and maintain equipment properly, failure to exercise due care with their equipment, and failure to provide adequate warnings and supervision. The complaint also alleges gross negligence on the part of both companies for knowingly or recklessly creating dangerous conditions without remedying them.
As a result of these alleged failures, Jackson claims he has endured immense physical pain, impairment, disfigurement, disability, mental anguish, and distress. He asserts that these injuries have led to significant financial losses due to medical expenses and lost earnings both past and future.
In his petition, Jackson seeks monetary relief exceeding $1 million for damages incurred from the accident. He is also demanding exemplary damages due to what he describes as gross negligence by the defendants. Additionally, Jackson has requested a jury trial for all issues related to this case.
Representing Gregory Jackson are attorneys Jason A. Itkin and Trent Shelton from Arnold & Itkin LLP based in Houston. The case is being overseen by Judge Egypt Young under Case ID 2024-51477 in the 295th District Court of Harris County.