Worker sues after losing fingertip

A Terrebonne Parish resident is suing his employer, claiming an on-the-job accident caused him to cut off the end of his finger.

Lance Verdin filed suit against Express Energy Services Operating, Seaquest Diving and Montco Offshore June 30 in federal court in New Orleans.

Verdin claims he was installing a hot tap tool on the vessel L/B Myrtle in July 2009 when the top of his index finger was traumatically amputated.

The defendants are accused of negligence for failing to provide Verdin with a safe place to work and failing to properly man, train and supervise its employees in the operation at issue. Verdin says the companies also failed to provide safe and appropriate equipment, failed to properly inspect and maintain equipment and failed to abide by appropriate industry safety standards.

Seaquest and Montco are also accused of negligence due to improper and unsafe operation of equipment, specifically the "comealong" used by employees in the operation.

Verdin is seeking damages for extreme physical, mental and emotional pain and suffering, loss of wages, loss of life's enjoyment, medical expenses, maintenance, cure, attorney fees and court costs.

New Orleans attorney Russell B. Ramsey is representing Verdin.

U.S. District Judge Helen G. Berrigan is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:10cv01879