A Louisiana resident has filed a lawsuit against a major energy corporation, alleging severe injuries due to negligence at a Texas utility plant. On September 27, 2024, Joseph Harvey lodged his complaint in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, targeting Calpine Corporation for what he claims were negligent actions leading to his accident.
According to the court documents, Joseph Harvey was working at a Calpine-managed plant in Hidalgo County on March 12, 2024, when he suffered significant bodily harm. The incident occurred as Harvey navigated defectively constructed scaffolding that gave way due to a negligently placed fire blanket. The fall resulted in both physical and mental injuries that have led to substantial medical expenses. Harvey's legal team argues that Calpine Corporation's failure to ensure safety standards directly contributed to these injuries. They accuse the company of numerous oversights including inadequate training and supervision of employees and contractors, insufficient maintenance of safety equipment, and violations of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.
The plaintiff's allegations are grounded in claims of negligence and gross negligence. Harvey asserts that Calpine Corporation did not act with reasonable care expected under such circumstances. His legal representation emphasizes that the company failed to develop adequate safety protocols or provide necessary training for its staff. Additionally, they argue that the corporation consciously disregarded extreme risks associated with their operations.
Harvey is seeking damages exceeding $1 million for medical expenses incurred and anticipated future costs related to his injuries. He also seeks compensation for pain and suffering, loss of earnings capacity, mental anguish, and other related damages. Furthermore, the lawsuit demands exemplary damages due to what it describes as Calpine’s grossly negligent behavior.
Representing Joseph Harvey are attorneys Ryan H. Zehl and Matthew O. Greenberg from Zehl & Associates PC based in Houston, Texas. The case is being heard by Judge Brianna Janel Denmon in the 125th Judicial District Court under Case ID 2024-66573.