An Arizona man is suing a Mississippi-based business, alleging serious injuries following a ship's offshore maneuver in Plaquemines Parish.
Justin Shawler filed a lawsuit July 14 in U.S. District Court Eastern District of Louisiana against Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions Inc. doing business in Louisiana, alleging premises negligence related to an abrupt navigational move that caused the plaintiff lasting injuries.
According to the complaint, on May 3, Shawler was a guest aboard a vessel owned, operated and/or managed by Ergon Asphalt when the ship was deployed on navigable waters. The suit says the vessel stopped suddenly, and the plaintiff incurred serious injury to his face, shoulder, arms and general body.
Shawler charges the defendant with negligence in failing to properly train and supervise the crew or employees, provide adequate medical treatment, maintain and operate the vessel safely, and follow applicable Coast Guard, OSHA and/or BSEE regulations.
The suit alleges the plaintiff suffered loss of earnings and earning capacity, pain, impairment, mental anguish and medical expenses.
Shalwer seeks compensation in excess of the minimum jurisdictional limits, pre- and post-judgment interest, attorney fees, expenses, and court costs. He is is represented by attorney Noah Wexler of Arnold & Itkin in Houston.
U.S. District Court Eastern District of Louisiana case number: 2:15-cv-02599-LMA-KWR.