Curtis
An electric wireline operator who was stationed on a Chevron permanent production platform has filed a lawsuit asking for $4 million in damages after he was allegedly injured using a jackhammer.
Larkin H. Baggett, III filed a lawsuit against Chevron U.S.A. on April 29 in the federal court in New Orleans. The incident occurred in April 2007, while the plaintiff was employed by Superior Energy Services as an electric wireline operator on a Chevron platform in the Gulf of Mexico.
Baggett claims the defendant is subject to the provisions of the Continental Shelf Lands Act and states that Chevron retained the right of supervision over the details of the work performed and ordered Baggett to use the hand-held jackhammer to break a well head stud and then supervised the precise details of the work.
Baggett claims he sustained "great bodily injuries" including injuries to his cervical spine, right shoulder, bilateral hands, lower back and hip. He states the injuries are so severe that he has needed surgical interventions that include a cervical fusion and a right rotator cuff repair.
Chevron is accused of causing Baggett's injuries and damage because of negligence, carelessness and omission of duty. Specifically, Baggett claims the defendant failed to provide sufficient supervision, training or instruction on using the tool, failed to provide proper tools or sufficient hazard prevention controls and failed to adopt practices, policies, and procedures to prevent injuries.
Baggett is asking the Court to award damages for physical and mental pain and suffering, disability, loss of wages, loss of earning capacity, loss of fringe benefits, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, interest and court costs.
Lafayette attorney Lawrence N. Curtis and New Orleans attorney Kenneth W. Jacques are representing the plaintiff. Jury trial requested.
U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey is assigned to the litigation.
Case No 2:10cv01244