Louisiana company is sued after man's arm is crushed by part of barge

A Terrebonne Parish resident is suing a Louisiana company after his arm was shattered when part of a barge crashed and fell on him.

Christopher Billiot filed suit against Chet Morrison Contractors on July 19 in federal court in New Orleans.

The alleged incident occurred on June 10, 2011, as Billiot was assisting in the repair of a leg of the spud barge. He states it fell and crashed down on his right arm, shattering it in multiple places.

The defendant is accused of failing to provide a safe place to work, negligently conducting the repair operation and for failing to abide by appropriate industry regulations and safety standards.

The plaintiff is seeking damages for physical, mental and emotional pain and suffering, loss of wages and benefits of employment, medical expenses, loss of life's enjoyment, maintenance, cure, punitive damages and court costs.

Billiot is represented by New Orleans attorney Russell B. Ramsey.

U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:11-cv-01675