Maritime News

Injured Barge Worker Seeks Jones Act Damages From Employer

Posted on Sep 28, 2010

A Jones Act seaman who was injured while working on a barge has filed a lawsuit against his employer.

The accident occurred on July 19, 2010. Alexander was working aboard a pipe-lay barge owned by Orion Construction when he sustained painful injuries to his right hand. The injuries left Alexander unable to work.

Kerry Alexander filed suit against Orion Construction on Sept. 8 in federal court in New Orleans. In his lawsuit, Kerry alleges that Orion Construction was negligent. The company failed to provide a safe workplace, failed to properly train Alexander, failed to provide adequate supervision for the seaman, failed to take precautions towards the safety of Orion’s employees, and failed to provide necessary safety equipment. This negligence created an unseaworthy vessel.

The Jones Act covers seamen who are injured while working offshore. Workers who are injured while on a barge, tugboat or other vessel have the right to file a Jones Act injury lawsuit against their employer.

Alexander is seeking damages for medical expenses; maintenance and cure; physical, mental and emotional pain and suffering; medical expenses; loss of wages; loss of earning capacity; physical disability; punitive damages and court costs.

The injured seaman is represented by the Jones Act attorneys at The Young Firm in New Orleans.