A maritime worker has filed a lawsuit against multiple offshore companies, alleging negligence and unsafe working conditions that led to severe injuries. Stephen Meche initiated the complaint on November 26, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, targeting Offshore Energy Services, LLC (OES), Diamond Offshore, LLC, and Seadrill Americas, Inc.
The case revolves around an incident that occurred on August 10, 2024. Meche claims he was injured while working as a Casing Supervisor aboard the vessel WEST VELA. The plaintiff alleges that his injury was due to negligence by the defendants and their failure to maintain a seaworthy vessel. According to Meche's complaint, an employee of Diamond Offshore failed to position equipment properly on the rig floor, creating hazardous conditions. Consequently, Meche had to perform his duties without adequate safety measures or proper training for handling specific tools like the CFT Tool. This led to him suffering a torn bicep as he attempted to lift heavy equipment without appropriate support.
Meche's lawsuit is grounded in several legal frameworks: the General Maritime Law of Negligence, the Jones Act concerning maritime worker rights and safety standards, and provisions under 33 U.S.C. 905(b) regarding liability for injuries caused by negligence of other parties during maritime employment. He accuses OES of failing to provide safe working conditions and necessary training or equipment. Additionally, he holds Diamond Offshore accountable for not ensuring a secure environment on their operated vessel and accuses Seadrill Americas of neglecting their duty as shipowners to maintain seaworthiness.
The plaintiff seeks compensation exceeding $75,000 for damages including medical expenses, lost wages due to his inability to work post-injury, and general damages for pain and suffering. He also demands maintenance and cure payments from OES until he reaches maximum medical improvement.
Representing Stephen Meche are attorneys Rusty Galloway and Andrea Barient from Galloway Jefcoat LLP. The case is presided over by unnamed judges in the Western District of Louisiana under Case ID 6:24-cv-01618.