Seaman's injuries allegedly caused by lack of proper supervision

A Louisiana seaman is suing his employer claiming he was injured due to a lack of proper supervision.

George L. Cote filed suit against Rentrop Tugs Inc. on Nov. 19 in federal court in New Orleans.

The accident occurred on Dec. 23, 2009 while Cote was working aboard the M/V Miss Hillary. He claims he suffered severe and disabling injuries to his right elbow, arm and other parts of his mind and body.

He claims the injury has caused him to need treatment from various healthcare providers and has caused physical, mental and emotional pain and suffering, loss of wages, loss of earning capacity, and loss of life's enjoyment.

The defendant is accused of failing to provide Cote with a safe place to work, failing to maintain the vessel in a condition reasonably fit for intended use, failing to provide appropriate and sufficient equipment and personnel to perform the task being performed and failing to provide proper supervision and training.

The plaintiff is asking for an award of maintenance, cure, attorney's fees, costs and damages.

Cote is represented by Houma attorney Christopher B. Siegrist and Franklin attorney Gary F. Legros.

U.S. District Judge Martin L. C. Feldman is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:10-cv-04375