CONWAY, Ark. (Legal Newsline) — A chemical transport company worker who suffered first- and second-degree burns due to improper hose connections is claiming negligence in an Arkansas lawsuit.
Michael Morgan filed a complaint April 10 in Faulkner County Circuit Court against Tokusen USA Inc., Dana Transport Inc., Leland Logistics Trucking LLC and Leland Green alleging negligence.
According to his complaint, Morgan was working for Time Dedicated Carriers on March 11, 2021, when he was assigned to assist with offloading caustic chemicals to Tokusen's Conway location. He alleges that as he pulled into the location adjacent to the tanker and a Leland Logistics semi to assist a Dana driver, he noticed the driver having trouble unloading.
Morgan further alleges that the discharge hose on the trailer blew off, hit him in the head and sprayed Sodium Hydroxide solution all over his body and face. He also alleges that despite him wearing a face shield, the hose blew the chemical under the shield and onto his face.
Morgan claims as he attempted to wipe the acid off with a towel, his skin was being left behind on the towel and he suffered from an intense burning on his face and legs. He claims a safety department inspection showed the hoses were not properly secured or connected and did not have the proper air pressures.
Morgan alleges he was out of work for more than three months and suffered permanent scarring to his lips and face.
Morgan seeks monetary relief, interest, trial by jury and all other just relief. He is represented by James Graham of The Graham Law Firm in Malvern.