Seaman sues after falling 30 feet from ladder

NEW ORLEANS – A worker who was hospitalized after falling 30 feet from a ladder has filed suit for injuries he allegedly received in the incident.

Delmon Marzett filed suit against Seatrade Reefer Chartering N.V., Seatrade Group N.V. and Biehl & Co. L.P. in the Orleans Parish Civil District Court July 9.

The defendants own, operate and manage the Prince of Stream, aboard which the plaintiff was employed at the time of the accident. On Feb. 14, Marzett claims he was working in the hull of the ship unloading cargo and that while the plaintiff was climbing a ladder to exit the hull, the ladder allegedly snapped, causing the plaintiff to fall nearly 30 feet and land on his head. The plaintiff claims he sustained injuries to his back, neck, shoulder, head and was transported to the hospital. Marzett’s claims are brought under General Maritime laws, as well as the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.

The defendant is accused failing to warn, failing properly design, maintain, and inspect equipment and vessel, violating the Longshore Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act  and being otherwise negligent.

An unspecified amount of damages is sought for severe and permanent bodily injuries, physical pain and impairment, mental anguish, medical expenses and lost  earnings.

In response to being served, the defendant has issued a notice of removal and request that record be closed.

Marzett is represented by Kyle Findley of Houston, Texas-based Arnold & Itkin LLP.

The case has been assigned to Division I Judge Piper D. Griffin.

Case no. 2013-06384.