Shelton
A seaman has filed a lawsuit for $5 million against his employer after he slipped on a kick plate and fell.
Jaime Medina filed suit against Reel Pipe, Offshore Service Vessels, and Galliano Marine Service of Dec. 22 in federal court in New Orleans.
Medina was allegedly injured on Aug. 21, 2009, shortly after he had changed the oil and filter on a generator of the M/V Joshua Chouest.
He states that he stepped on the stairwell kick plate, lost his footing, and fell down the stairwell. During the fall, he attempted to grab the hand rail with his right hand and injured his shoulder, wrist and hand.
The defendant is accused of negligence for failing to secure the kick plate to the deck, failing to warn Medina of the unsecured kick plate, failing to follow applicable safety guidelines and regulations, and failing to provide a safe place to work.
The plaintiff is seeking damages for lost earnings, mental anguish, physical pain and suffering, loss of earning capacity, physical impairment, disfigurement, interest and court costs.
Medina is represented by Michael E. Shelton of The Shelton Law Firm in Houston. A jury trial is requested.
Case No. 2:11-cv-03142