Doyle Dennis Avery LLP Files Negligence Lawsuit Against Liberty Energy Inc. for Workplace Tractor Trailer Injury in New Mexico
Doyle Dennis Avery LLP has filed a lawsuit against Liberty Energy Inc. on behalf of its client, a tractor truck driver who suffered severe injuries while transporting cargo at Liberty Energy’s facility in New Mexico. The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico, alleges that Liberty Energy’s negligence in loading and securing cargo led to a catastrophic injury that resulted in permanent harm to the client, including the traumatic amputation of his left thumb.
Case Background: Preventable Workplace Injury in the Energy Industry
On September 11, 2024, the client arrived at Liberty Energy’s facility to deliver a load of full sandboxes and receive an outbound load of empty sandboxes. These sandboxes, large containers used in hydraulic fracturing operations to store and transport sand, are substantial industrial equipment that require proper securing procedures to transport safely.
Negligent Loading Procedures
Instead of allowing our client to personally inspect and secure the cargo—a standard safety practice in the transportation industry—Liberty Energy employees assumed responsibility for loading and securing the cargo onto the truck. Liberty Energy personnel assured our client the cargo was properly secured and instructed him to immediately exit the facility so that another cargo could be processed.
This rushed approach to cargo handling demonstrates a concerning prioritization of operational speed over worker safety, a pattern that can lead to devastating consequences in industrial settings.
Catastrophic Injury from Improperly Secured Cargo
Upon stopping at a safe location outside the facility to inspect the load, as is standard practice for professional truck drivers, the client discovered that the cargo had been improperly secured. Tragically, as he attempted to address the safety issue, an unsecured sandbox fell, crushing the client’s left hand and causing a traumatic immediate amputation of the left thumb.
The severity of the injury necessitated emergency medical evacuation, and the client was airlifted to Midland, Texas, for specialized surgical intervention. Despite medical treatment, the client has suffered permanent disfigurement and disability.
Legal Claims Against Liberty Energy Inc.
The lawsuit filed by Doyle Dennis Avery LLP alleges multiple forms of negligence against Liberty Energy Inc., including:
Specific Negligence Allegations
- Improper Loading Procedures: Failure to correctly load and secure the sandboxes according to industry standards and safety regulations
- Inadequate Training: Failure to properly train employees in safe cargo loading and securing techniques
- Insufficient Safety Protocols: Lack of comprehensive safety procedures for loading operations
- Rushed Operations: Prioritizing operational efficiency over safety by hurrying the client off the premises
- Failure to Supervise: Inadequate supervision of loading personnel
- Misrepresentation of Safety: Falsely assuring the client that the load was properly secured when it was not
Damages Sought for the Injured Worker
As a result of Liberty Energy’s alleged negligence, our client has suffered:
- Permanent physical impairment and disfigurement
- Loss of earning capacity and future income
- Severe physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Significant past and future medical expenses
- Diminished quality of life
Workplace Safety in the Energy Transportation Sector
The energy industry, particularly in regions like New Mexico and Texas where oil and gas operations are prevalent, relies heavily on commercial transportation to move equipment and materials. This case highlights several critical safety issues within this sector:
Cargo Securement Regulations
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations provide detailed requirements for properly securing cargo. These regulations exist specifically to prevent the type of accident that injured our client. Energy companies that load cargo onto commercial vehicles have a responsibility to understand and follow these regulations.
Shared Responsibility for Load Security
While drivers ultimately bear responsibility for their loads while on public roadways, companies that perform loading operations have a duty to conduct these operations safely. When a company takes control of the loading process, as Liberty Energy did in this case, they assume a significant portion of this responsibility.
Time Pressure and Safety Corners
High-demand operations like those in the energy sector often create production pressure that can lead to safety shortcuts. Companies must ensure that operational efficiency never comes at the expense of worker safety.
The Impact of Traumatic Hand Injuries
Traumatic hand injuries like the amputation suffered by our client have profound and lasting effects on every aspect of an individual’s life:
Occupational Limitations
Professional drivers rely on full manual dexterity to perform their jobs safely. Hand injuries can severely limit or end careers in this field. The loss of a thumb is particularly devastating, as it significantly impairs grasping ability and overall hand function.
Daily Life Challenges
Hand injuries affect virtually every aspect of daily living, from basic self-care to household tasks to recreational activities. These injuries often require significant lifestyle adaptations and may necessitate assistance with everyday activities.
Psychological Impact
Beyond the physical trauma, catastrophic injuries often cause significant psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. The sudden change in physical capability and career prospects can also lead to issues with self-image and identity.
Legal Remedies for Injured Transportation Workers
Workers injured in the transportation industry while performing services for energy companies may have several potential avenues for compensation:
Personal Injury Claims
As in this case, workers may pursue personal injury claims against negligent companies when their actions directly cause harm. These claims require demonstrating that the company failed to exercise reasonable care and that this failure caused the injury.
Workers’ Compensation
Depending on employment status and jurisdiction, injured workers may also be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which can provide medical coverage and partial wage replacement regardless of fault.
Third-Party Claims
In some situations, parties beyond the immediate employer may share liability for workplace injuries. This might include equipment manufacturers, maintenance contractors, or other entities involved in creating hazardous conditions.
Doyle Dennis Avery LLP’s Commitment to Injured Workers
At Doyle Dennis Avery LLP, we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured workers in the transportation and energy sectors. Our experienced attorneys understand the complex legal landscape surrounding workplace injuries and have a proven track record of holding companies accountable for negligent practices.
We recognize that behind every case like this is a real person whose life has been permanently altered by preventable circumstances. Our firm is committed to not only securing fair compensation for our clients but also to driving industry-wide safety improvements through legal accountability.
Protecting Your Rights After a Workplace Injury
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to employer negligence, whether as a tractor truck driver or in another capacity, it’s essential to understand your legal rights:
- Seek immediate medical attention for your injuries and ensure they are properly documented
- Report the incident to appropriate supervisors and authorities
- Document everything related to the accident, including photographs of hazardous conditions when possible
- Preserve evidence such as work orders, communications, and witness information
- Consult with an experienced workplace injury attorney before providing statements to insurance companies or accepting any settlements
Contact Doyle Dennis Avery LLP for a Free Consultation
Workplace injuries require specialized legal expertise, particularly when they involve the transportation and energy sectors. At Doyle Dennis Avery LLP, our attorneys have the knowledge, resources, and determination to help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve suffered an injury due to negligence in the workplace, contact our experienced injury attorneys today for a free, confidential case evaluation. Our team will review your situation, explain your legal options, and help you determine the best path forward.
Don’t let corporations minimize your suffering or deny you the compensation you need for recovery. Learn more about your rights after a workplace injury and how our firm can help protect them.
Call us at (713) 571-1146 or complete our online contact form to schedule your free consultation with our injury legal team.