NEW ORLEANS – A Mississippi man is suing a Lafayette company, Moncla Marine Operations, for alleged safety violations that caused his injury.
Alvin B. Fortenberry filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana against Moncla Marine Operations LLC, alleging violations of the Jones Act, a 1920 rule governing maritime pay, which includes negligence, unseaworthiness and maintenance and care.
According to the complaint, on May 10 Fortenberry was working as a seaman aboard the Inland Barge 107 Speck in the derrick racking pipe when he slipped and fell, injuring his neck and back. The suit claims Moncla failed to provide safe working conditions, including a non-slip surface in the derrick, which caused his fall. Fortenberry claims his injuries go beyond pain and suffering and immediate medical costs, and likely include reduced earning capacity and additional future medical expenses.
Fortenberry seeks damages to be determined at a jury trial, interest and court costs. He is represented by attorney Steve Gordon of the Houston, Texas firm of Gordon, Elias & Seely LLP.
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District Case number 2:15-cv-06747