$2 million lawsuit filed against marine company after employee falls down steps

A welders' assistant has filed a lawsuit for $2 million against his employer after he fell down steps during rough seas.

Travis Smith filed suit against Eveready Marine Inc. on Aug. 18 in federal court in New Orleans.

Smith was injured on Feb. 18, 2009, while working as a welders' assistant and rigger in the Gulf of Mexico. He was attempting to descend the steps into the cabin of the M/V John E. Michael, when he fell backwards and landed at the base of the steps.

The defendant is accused of negligence for failing to provide a safe and seaworthy vessel, failing to stop crew change operations during unsafe weather and sea conditions, negligence per se and failing to properly train and supervise its boat operators.

The plaintiff is seeking more than $2 million in damages for loss of wages and benefits, impairment of earning capacity, physical pain and suffering, mental and emotional pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of enjoyment of life, permanent disability, interest and court costs.

Smith is represented by Berney L. Strauss and Rhett E. King of Strauss & King in New Orleans. A jury trial is requested.

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

Case No. 2:11-cv-02046