Steele
A Louisiana corporation is accused of negligence for ordering a deckhand to work beyond his normal 12-hour shift, according to a recently filed federal lawsuit.
Jason Barfield filed the complaint against Shamrock Management on Nov. 10 in federal court in New Orleans.
Barfield states he injured his neck and shoulder while being forced to tie up the vessel he worked upon, the M/V Pintail, using inappropriate and unsafe rope materials.
He claims he was further put at risk because the crew had been working without necessary breaks. Specifically, Barfield states he was forced to work beyond his normal shift and was suffering from exhaustion and sleep deprivation.
Barfield claims the defendant's actions are in violation of numerous statutes and regulations including OSHA and Coast Guard regulations.
He is seeking damages for physical pain and suffering, mental pain, suffering and anguish, medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, fringe benefits, disfigurement and disability, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of personal property and personal belongs, attorney's fees, court costs, maintenance and cure, interest and punitive damages.
Barfield is represented by Gretna attorney Ronna M. Steele.
U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk is assigned to the case.
Case No. 2:10-cv-4296