Captain sues for $4 million after falling

NEW ORLEANS - A captain is suing for more than $4 million after he injured his spine when he fell while aboard his vessel.

Robert P. Penton filed suit against Daigle Towing Service and Albert & Judy on March 26 in federal court in New Orleans.

Penton was employed by defendants as a 3rd Captain aboard the M/V Baroid when the alleged incident occurred on Dec. 6, 2011. While attempting to pull a starboard cable from the wench, Penton suffered injuries when he fell because the wench jammed, the suit states.

According to the lawsuit, Penton injured his spine.

The defendants are accused of negligence for failing to furnish a safe place to work.

The plaintiff is asking for damages for mental and physical pain and suffering, lost wages, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, maintenance and cure, punitive damages, compensatory damages, attorney fees, court costs and interest.

Penton is represented by Thomas M. Discon of Discon Law Firm in Mandeville.

U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:12-cv-00799