Captain sues for $1.9 million after falling due to missing stairs

A supply vessel's captain is suing for more than $1.9 million after he fell because he did not notice the stairs were removed during repairs.

California resident Pete Terrebonne filed suit against Galliano Marine Service, Nautical Ventures and North American Shipbuilding on Aug. 27 in federal court in New Orleans.

According to court records, the M/V Fast sailor was docked at a shipyard in Galliano for minor repairs in preparation for Coast Guard and ABS inspections. On Sept. 3, 2009, Captain Terrebonne says he was attempting to descend a short stairway to enter the main deck and passenger area of the vessel, when he fell because steps had been removed by carpenters.

Terrebonne claims the carpenters failed to put back the steps in proper position before they departed the vessel.

He states the fall caused him to suffer a traumatic injury to his left knee and caused him to develop deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Terrebonne states the injury has caused him to be "not fit for duty."

The defendants are accused of failing to provide a safe place to work.

Terrebonne is seeking more than $1.9 million in compensatory damages for mental anguish, pain and suffering, general disability, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, maintenance, cure, interest and court costs.

Terrebonne is represented by Daniel S. Foley and John H. Butler, III of Baker, Boudreaux, Lamy & Foley in New Orleans and Rebecca Cuanrd in Baton Rouge.

U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:10cv02845