Maritime News

Drunken Captain Accused; Two Galveston Area Seamen Thrown Overboard

Posted on Jul 31, 2011

Two Galveston area seamen were knocked overboard when their allegedly drunken captain drove a dredging vessel into an underwater pole. The pair is seeking $11 million in damages from the captain.

The Rio Grande pair, Gilberto Adame and Francisco Ozuna, filed their suit in Galveston County District Court on April 26. They allege that the captain, Mike Hooks, was intoxicated and caused the vessel to strike an underwater pole, throwing them both overboard. They claim that their injuries are directly related to the fact that the dredge itself was unfit for sea work, the crew inadequately trained and handrails that could have saved them were not available.

Adame and Ozuna have claimed to sustain multiple severe injuries as a result of the fall. They allege that the defendant was negligent and that they are owed reparations.

A company doctor examined the two complainants following the accident and released them to light duty; however, they both sought their own medical care. The suit states that both seamen subsequently quit their jobs.

Many preventable maritime accidents occur, but the law protects Gulf Coast maritime workers who sustain injury. The Jones Act lawyers of The Young Firm regret when anyone is injured, but also believe in the rights of every seaman. If you or someone you love has been injured in a Jones Act accident, do not hesitate to call them immediately TOLL FREE at (866) 938-6113.