Truck driver sues after steel beam allegedly smashes hand, fingers

GRETNA – A local company is being sued after a truck driver’s hand and fingers were allegedly smashed by a steel beam that was being delivered to him.

Gregory Richardson filed suit against Vincent L. Fabro Sr. and Extreme Powder Coating of N.O. in the 24th Judicial District Court on Aug. 21.

Richardson contends that he was taking delivery of a set of steel beams from Fabro and Extreme Powder Coating of N.O. when a forklift being used to move the delivery swung a steel beam and crushed his hand and fingers. The plaintiff asserts the incident happened as the beam was being loaded onto his tractor trailer. Richardson alleges that he received severe and disabling injuries to his hand and fingers in the incident.

The defendant is accused of failing to have proper equipment to deliver steel beams, failing to properly maintain the forklift, knowingly utilizing a malfunctioning forklift, failing to have in effect a proper and adequate safety program and failing to have sufficient personnel to safely load the truck.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for pain and suffering, mental anguish, medical expenses, loss of enjoyment of life, lost wages, loss of earning capacity and permanent disability.

Richardson is represented by Darryl M. Breaux of New Orleans.

The case has been assigned to Division L Judge Donald A. Rowan Jr.

Case no. 741-531.