A catastrophic workplace injury has led to a high-stakes legal battle in Harris County, Texas. On August 29, 2024, Cliff Henson filed a complaint against River Oaks Automotive Center, Inc., seeking over $1 million in damages for severe injuries sustained while working at the defendant's automotive center.
The lawsuit was filed by Henson in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, on August 29, 2024. The case centers around an incident that occurred on May 30, 2023, when Henson was instructed by his supervisor to apply hydraulic pressure to a piece of equipment that subsequently exploded. This explosion resulted in severe injuries to Henson's elbow and other parts of his body.
Henson's complaint alleges multiple counts of negligence against River Oaks Automotive Center. According to the filing, the company failed to provide a safe workplace and adequate safety measures and practices. "Defendant was negligent for failing to provide proper assistance and training," states the petition. Additionally, it accuses the company of not providing properly trained supervisors and requiring employees to perform tasks under hazardous conditions without adequate warnings about potential dangers.
The plaintiff argues that these failures directly led to his injuries and are grounds for holding River Oaks Automotive Center liable under various legal doctrines including employer/employee status and agency by estoppel. "The principal is vicariously liable for the acts of the agent because of an employer/employee status," reads the complaint.
Henson seeks monetary relief exceeding $1 million for physical pain, mental anguish, medical expenses incurred both past and future, loss of earnings capacity, disfigurement, and physical impairment. The complaint emphasizes that these damages have had a significant impact on Henson’s quality of life and will continue to do so indefinitely.
The case also highlights procedural requirements such as mandatory disclosures from the defendant within thirty days as per Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 194(a). Additionally, Henson has requested a jury trial to resolve this matter.
Representing Cliff Henson is attorney Loren G. Klitsas from Klitsas & Vercher P.C., based in Houston. The case has been assigned Case ID 2024-58130 and will be heard in the 270th Judicial District Court under Judge Taltha McCarty.