Landmark Verdict by Lawyer Holds Frito-Lay Accountable for Workplace Tragedy

News Summary

A significant $71.95 million verdict has been awarded to the family of Hernan Murrilo following a deadly workplace accident at Frito-Lay. The jury found Walker Engineering primarily responsible for the incident that resulted in Murrilo’s tragic death in 2019. This ruling underscores the importance of corporate accountability and workplace safety. Aldous Law Firm, which represented the family, emphasizes the need for improved safety measures to prevent future tragedies. The case reflects a commitment to ensuring that negligent practices in the workplace are addressed and penalized appropriately.

Massive $71.95 Million Verdict Highlights Accountability in Workplace Accidents

In a landmark case that has captured the attention of legal and corporate communities alike, ALM’s Top 100 Verdicts for 2024 features Aldous Law Firm for securing a stunning $71.95 million verdict following a tragic industrial accident at Frito-Lay. This remarkable financial ruling comes as a significant victory for the family of Hernan Murrilo, a 40-year-old worker who lost his life in 2019 after falling from a scissor lift.

Details of the Case

The case, Laura Lopez et al. vs. Frito-Lay, Inc. et al., was brought forth in the 44th Civil District Court in Dallas County, where it attracted considerable media attention. Over the course of a three-day jury deliberation, critical evidence, including video footage from inside the Frito-Lay facility, was presented to establish the liability of Walker Engineering, a company based in Irving. Ultimately, the jury found Walker Engineering 65 percent liable for the accident, while a related entity, Walker Industrial, was deemed 35 percent responsible.

Impact of the Verdict

This ruling has wider implications, as the jury’s decision mandates Walker Engineering to shoulder the full financial burden of the $71.95 million award under Texas law. The verdict was awarded to Hernan’s widow and four children, serving as a testament to the need for corporate accountability, particularly in matters regarding workplace safety.

Failure in Safety Protocols

The trial emphasized serious safety lapses, with the plaintiff’s counsel alleging that Walker Engineering allowed an unqualified employee to operate the boom lift, which directly contributed to Murrilo’s death. The defense countered that Murrilo himself was responsible for moving the scissor lift too close to the boom lift, but this argument was convincingly dismissed by the jury.

Challenges Faced by the Plaintiffs

Judge Veretta Frazier presided over the trial, which was meticulously recorded in full by Courtroom View Network, providing access to critical moments, including opening statements and expert testimonies. The case was bolstered by significant pre-trial focus group work, enhancing the plaintiffs’ strategy and ultimately leading to a successful outcome.

A Commitment to Change

Aldous Law Firm, which specializes in high-stakes personal injury litigation—including wrongful death and medical malpractice—has made it clear that this verdict extends beyond financial compensation. The firm aims to improve workplace safety training to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Founder Charla Aldous underscored the importance of holding responsible parties accountable, emphasizing that safety in the workplace cannot be taken lightly.

Recognition in Legal Circles

Earlier in 2024, Aldous Law made headlines for all attorneys being recognized in Lawdragon’s 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers list, with newer honorees Caleb Miller and Eleanor Aldous included in this prestigious selection. Charla Aldous herself is a distinguished member of the Lawdragon Hall of Fame, having maintained her presence on the list for an impressive 13 years, further establishing the firm’s reputation in personal injury law.

Future Implications

As the legal community processes the ramifications of this verdict, one thing is clear—corporate accountability in workplace safety has received a vital reinforcement. Aldous Law’s victory may not only provide justice for the Murrilo family but also signal to companies that negligent practices will not go unpunished. The decision to hold Walker Engineering fully accountable for their actions represents a significant step toward enhanced safety measures in industries prone to such risks.

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