A Tangipahoa Parish seaman is suing his employer, alleging negligence in an offshore accident that he says led to permanent injuries.
Jerry D. Franklin Jr. filed a lawsuit Sept. 17 against Lebeouf Bros. Towing of Bourg, in U.S. District Court Eastern District of Louisiana, alleging maritime negligence and un-seaworthiness of its vessel in 2014.
According to the lawsuit, on July 11, 2014, Franklin, who was employed as a crew member on the H.J. Dupre, sustained severe lower back injuries when he attempted to comply with instructions to manually move a 20-foot crossover asphalt transfer hose from the deck of one barge to another without an adequate lifting device.
The suit states Lebeouf breached its duty when it failed to provide safe equipment, adequate crew and proper supervision.
The lawsuit alleges Lebeouf's injuries will require extensive medical treatment, surgical intervention, maintenance and cure. The plaintiff alleges severe physical and psychological pain, loss of enjoyment of life, lost wages and earning capacity, permanent disability and medical expenses.
Franklin seeks $3.65 million, interest, attorney fees, expenses and court costs. He is represented by attorneys Hugh Lambert, Cayce Peterson, Brian Mears and Jacki Smith of The Lambert Firm in New Orleans.
U.S. District Court Eastern District of Louisiana case number 2:15-cv-04506-SSV-SS.