NEW ORLEANS - After falling off of a gangway, a seaman has filed a lawsuit against his employer claiming the company failed to provide proper safety equipment.
Robert Darley filed suit against Harvey Gulf International Marine on Nov. 6 in federal court in New Orleans.
The alleged incident occurred on Aug. 14, 2012 as Darley was employed by the defendant as a crewmember of the tugboat Harvey Intruder.
According to the lawsuit, he was crossing the gangway to board the tugboat when the gangway shifted and flipped over tossing Darley into the water. Darley allegedly suffered severe injuries to his shoulder, hip, neck and head.
The defendant is accused of negligence for failing to properly equip, man, provision, maintain and operate the vessel under its control, properly and reasonably select and implement an overall plan to complete the tasks at hand in a safe and non-hazardous manner, provide a safe and non-hazardous workplace, provide safe and sufficient tools and manpower to complete tasks at hand, properly instruct and outfit Darley, properly place, service, maintain, inspect, adjust and oversee the gangway, provide proper safety equipment and provide training and instruction to Darley’s fellow crew members.
The plaintiff is seeking damages for physical pain and mental anguish, medical expenses, attorney’s fees, maintenance and cure, and court costs.
Darley is represented by Alton J. Hall Jr. and Bobby J. Delise of Delise & Hall in Covington. A jury trial is requested.
U.S. District Judge Helen G. Berrigan is assigned to the case.
Case No. 2:12-cv-02693
Seaman sues after falling after gangway
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