Seaman seeks $1 million after fainting

A seaman is suing for more than $1 million after he fell and hit his head during a fainting spell.

William LeTourneau filed suit against Phil Guilbeau Offshore Inc. on Oct. 8 in federal court in New Orleans.

The incident occurred on July 7 as LeTourneau was working aboard the M/V Mia Malloy as a deckhand seaman. LeTourneau states that he suffered severe and disabling injuries to his head after falling due to overheating.

He claims he was working in the rutter/void room of the vessel when he felt overheated and faint. He struck his head against an object and fell to his side. He states he attempted to catch the wall but became unsteady and hit his head inside the tank, losing consciousness.

An incident report was not filed but the seaman was advised to seek further treatment. According to the lawsuit, he was then ordered to transfer water to the vessel as it was pitching in heavy seas. During this task, LeTourneau claims he hit his head hard against the rail.

The defendant is accused of negligence and the vessel of unseaworthiness by failing to provide reasonable care with respect to LeTourneau's safety and for not furnishing any respirator, breathing apparatus, exhaust or ventilation in the tank LeTourneau was assigned to clean.

LeTourneau is represented by Jack W. Harang, James A. Stegall III and Martina Cartwright in Houston. Jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge Ivan L. R. Lemelle is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:10-cv-03396