Railroad worker sues after injuring finger

A railroad worker is suing his employer after his finger was injured when a co-worker allegedly attempted to kick a door shut.

Clark R. Lanus filed suit against The New Orleans Public Belt Railroad Commission d/b/a New Orleans Public Belt Railroad Co. on April 25 in federal court in New Orleans.

The accident occurred on Sept. 2, 2010 while Lanus was employed by NOPB's as a trackman/roadway worker. Lanus states a supervisor kicked in a steel ballast door, crushing and lacerating the index finger on Lanus' right hand. Lanus claims the injury has resulted in an 18 percent permanent impairment of the finger.

The defendant is accused of failing to provide a safe place to work, failing to provide safe working conditions and proper equipment, failing to warn of unsafe workplace conditions, failing to provide sufficient and proper assistance, failing to comply with mandated federal regulations and failing to exercise due care and caution.

The plaintiff is seeking damages for physical pain and suffering, permanent disability, loss of enjoyment of life, lost wages, medical expenses, interest and court costs.

Lanus is represented by Joseph M. Miller, Benjamin B. Saunders and Carisa German-Oden of Davis Saunders in Mandeville. A jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:11-cv-00973