David
After injuring his ankle while working, a train conductor has filed a lawsuit against his employer for causing an unsafe condition by failing to remove debris alongside train tracks.
Shawn Torrence filed suit against The New Orleans Public Belt Railroad Commission d/b/a New Orleans Public Belt Railroad Co. on Sept. 20 in New Orleans federal court.
The incident occurred on May 1, as Torrence was working as a conductor for the defendant. He states he injured his ankle due to the railroad's alleged failure to remove debris from the area alongside tracks near where he was working.
The defendant is accused of negligence for failing to provide proper supervision, failing to properly inspect the area where Torrence was working, failing to properly train its employees, failing to properly maintain the walking area where Torrence was working, operating its rail yard in an unsafe manner by allowing debris to accumulate and failing to maintain its rail yard in a safe condition by ensuring that debris was removed from the area where Torrence was working.
The plaintiff is seeking damages for physical pain, mental anguish, physical impairment, discomfort, loss of wages, loss of wage earning capacity, medical expenses, interest and court costs.
Torrence is represented by Blake R. David of Broussard & David in Lafayette and Ross Citti of Youngdahl & Citti, P.C. in Houston. A jury trial is requested.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance is assigned to the case.
Case No. 2:11-cv-02352