Seaman sues employer over maritime collision

A Mississippi seaman brought a lawsuit against his employer claiming breach of duty in a 2013 matter.

Joseph Columb filed a complaint against Western Rivers Boat Management Inc. of Paducah, Ky.; C.J.L. Inc. of Harvey, La.; and River Ventures LLC of St. Amant, La., in the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Louisiana on May 4, citing negligence in a December 2013 incident.

The suit states that the plaintiff, who worked for Western Rivers, was at work aboard a vessel on or about Dec. 29, 2013, when his vessel abruptly collided with another, allegedly causing him knee and back injuries along with muscle and tissue damage.

Columb maintains that the defendant failed to provide a seaworthy vessel; a safe workplace; advance warning of hazard; proper navigation; competent crew, equipment and training; and adequate medical response.

Citing the defendant with breach of duty, the plaintiff asserts past and future physical, mental and emotional pain, suffering and anguish; loss of enjoyment of life, household services, wages and earning capacity; and medical expenses.

He is seeking compensatory, exemplary and punitive damages; attorney’s fees, expenses, and court costs.

Columb is represented by David Whitmore of Scheuermann & Jones in New Orleans.

U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Louisiana Case 2:15-cv-01473-NJB-KWR