San Antonio, Texas, December 10, 2025
Tesla is being sued by Maricela Colmenero for injuries sustained from a forklift accident at Gigafactory Texas. The lawsuit claims Tesla’s negligence in safety protocols led to the incident. Colmenero, seeking over $1 million in damages, alleges that the company failed to ensure a safe environment. This lawsuit is part of ongoing concerns regarding Tesla’s safety record in Texas, where multiple incidents have raised alarms about workplace conditions and operational management.
San Antonio, Texas – Tesla Faces Lawsuit Over Forklift Accident Injuries at Gigafactory Texas
San Antonio, Texas – Tesla Inc. is facing a lawsuit filed by Maricela Colmenero, who alleges she sustained serious injuries from falling debris after two forklifts collided at the company’s Gigafactory Texas near Austin. The incident occurred on January 24, 2025, when Colmenero was visiting the facility. She is seeking damages exceeding $1 million, claiming that Tesla’s negligence in operating heavy equipment led to the accident.
Details of the Incident
According to the lawsuit, Colmenero was walking toward an exit after leaving the cafeteria when she observed two forklifts being operated recklessly in the walkway. The forklifts collided, causing a heavy object to dislodge and fall onto her, resulting in serious bodily injuries. The suit alleges that Tesla failed to create a safe environment, properly train its employees, or warn visitors of dangerous conditions. Tesla has not yet responded to the lawsuit.
Background on Tesla’s Safety Record
This lawsuit adds to a series of safety-related incidents involving Tesla’s operations in Texas. Notably, at least two workers have died during the construction of the Gigafactory Texas. In August 2024, Victor J. Gomez was electrocuted at the site, and in September 2021, Antelmo Ramirez died of hyperthermia. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) fined Tesla $49,650 over Gomez’s death. Additionally, OSHA fined Belcan Services Group LP, a Tesla subcontractor, $14,502 in Ramirez’s death. Tesla was not fined in that case. Since 2021, Tesla’s operations across the country have undergone 43 inspections resulting in at least 89 workplace safety violations and associated fines. However, only two of these inspections were for its sites in Texas—the fines related to Gomez’s death and a July 2024 citation over workers being exposed to hexavalent chromium, a carcinogen, on the Cybertruck production line at Gigafactory Texas.
Legal Considerations
In Texas, employers are required to provide a safe working environment and may be held liable for injuries resulting from unsafe conditions. The lawsuit against Tesla will likely focus on whether the company met these obligations and whether its actions or inactions contributed to the accident. Legal experts note that establishing negligence in such cases involves demonstrating that the employer knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to address it appropriately.
Implications for Tesla
This legal action could have significant implications for Tesla, especially concerning its safety practices and reputation. The outcome may influence how the company addresses safety protocols and employee training in the future. Additionally, the case may set a precedent for similar lawsuits against corporations regarding workplace safety and negligence.
Conclusion
The lawsuit filed by Maricela Colmenero against Tesla highlights ongoing concerns about workplace safety at the company’s facilities. As the legal process unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the developments and assess their impact on Tesla’s operations and safety standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the lawsuit against Tesla about?
The lawsuit alleges that Tesla’s negligence in operating heavy equipment at its Gigafactory Texas led to an accident where Maricela Colmenero was injured by falling debris after two forklifts collided.
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred on January 24, 2025, when Colmenero was visiting Tesla’s Gigafactory Texas near Austin.
What is Colmenero seeking in the lawsuit?
Colmenero is seeking damages exceeding $1 million, claiming that Tesla’s negligence resulted in her injuries.
Has Tesla responded to the lawsuit?
As of now, Tesla has not responded to the lawsuit.
What is Tesla’s safety record in Texas?
Tesla has faced multiple safety-related incidents in Texas, including worker fatalities during the construction of Gigafactory Texas and OSHA fines for safety violations.
What are the legal implications for Tesla?
The lawsuit could have significant implications for Tesla, potentially affecting its safety practices, employee training, and overall reputation.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | January 24, 2025 |
| Location | Gigafactory Texas near Austin, Texas |
| Injured Party | Maricela Colmenero |
| Allegation | Negligence in operating heavy equipment leading to injury |
| Damages Sought | Over $1 million |
| Tesla’s Response | No response as of now |
| Previous Incidents | Worker fatalities and OSHA fines related to safety violations at Tesla’s Texas facilities |
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