NEW ORLEANS – A Louisiana couple has filed a lawsuit after the wife was allegedly injured when she fell in the engine compartment of their boat after repairs had been made to it.
Gary and Brianne Ruiz have brought suit against New Orleans-based Seabrook Marine LLC and their insurance company.
The couple claims they contracted with Seabrook to make various repairs and replacements in their fishing boat.
On July 24, 2014, the defendants purportedly informed the plaintiffs the repairs were complete. The following day, at 9:30 p.m., the couple claims they arrived at the business to pick up the boat which was docked at the Intracoastal Canal. As Brianne Ruiz entered the vessel, which she alleged had no lights on, she claims to have fallen into the engine compartment fracturing her foot.
The couple alleges the engine compartment lid was tied to a nearby table leg exposing the engine compartment to anyone entering the vessel.
As a result of the fall, Brianne Ruiz was allegedly compelled to undergo surgery and had pins placed in her foot.
The couple alleges that the defendants acted negligently in allowing the compartment to be open and failing to warn them of the inherently dangerous condition.
The plaintiffs seek damages for loss of consortium, loss of love and affection, medical expenses and pain and suffering.
The plaintiffs are represented by Mark Shea at the Law Offices of Mark J. Shea in New Orleans.
The case has been assigned to Division N Judge Ethel S. Julien.
Case No. 15-06829.