Seaman seeks nearly $1 million after slipping in hydraulic fluid

A Jefferson Parish seaman is suing his employer for nearly $1 million after he slipped in hydraulic fluid on the floor and injured his knee.

Hurby H. James filed suit against Atlantic Sounding Co. Inc. and Weeks Marine In. on Oct. 26 in federal court in New Orleans.

The alleged incident occurred Aug. 6 as James was performing his assigned duties aboard the M/V Alexandra. He states he slipped on hydraulic fluid on the deck and sustained serious and permanent injuries to his right knee.

Defendant Atlantic Sounding is accused of negligence for failing to provide James with a safe place to work, failing to keep equipment and machinery in a reasonable safe state of repair and maintenance, failing to conduct repairs to keep hydraulic fluid from leaking onto the deck, failing to warn and failing to equip the hydraulic tank with a catch pan.

James is seeking more than $975,000 in damages for medical expenses, physical pain and suffering, mental pain and suffering, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, interest and court costs.

James is represented by George W. Bryne, Jr., Evette E. Ungar and Cheryl L. Wild of Ungar & Byrne of New Orleans.

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

Case No. 2:10-cv-04091