Union Pacific worker sues after tripping in rail yard

A railroad worker has filed a lawsuit against his employer after he tripped in the rail yard and injured his knee.

Larry Barrilleaux filed suit against Union Pacific Railroad Co. on Aug. 2 in federal court in New Orleans.

The accident occurred on March 9, as Barrilleaux was working as a switchman for Union Pacific at its Avondale Yard. Barrilleaux states he was injured while pulling pins on the switching lead north of Track 14. He injured his right knee when he stepped into a deep depression in the walkway alongside the track, he claims.

The defendant is accused of negligence for failing to use provide a safe place to work, failing to comply with applicable government regulations, failing to provide adequate assistance to Barrilleaux while he was required to work in unsafe conditions, failing to inspect, maintain and repair unsafe walking conditions in its switching yard, failing to provide adequate supervision and for failing to employ safe working practices regarding inspecting and repairing holes.

The plaintiff is seeking damages for pain, suffering, inconvenience, irritation, annoyance, limits, restrictions, bodily impairment, mental pain and anguish, medical expenses, impaired earning capacity, impaired health, strength and vitality, loss of ability to enjoy life's pleasures, interest and court costs.

Barrilleaux is represented by Blake G. Arata Jr., C. Perrin Rome, III and W. Chad Stelly of Rome, Arata, Baxley & Stelly in New Orleans.

U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:11-cv-01848