Deckhand claims winch operator tightened tow line too quickly

A deckhand for Beelman River Terminals filed a Jones Act complaint in Madison County Circuit Court Dec. 10, alleging his employer failed to provide him a reasonably safe place to work.

Jesse White alleges that on April 23, while in the performance of his duties, he was severely injured when the winch operator tightened a towline too fast causing it to strike his knee.

According to White, Beelman violated provisions of the Jones Act by negligently failing to provide him with adequate assistance, failing to warn him of the dangers in the area he was assigned to work and by failing to supervise his work.

He also claims Beelman failed to inspect the vessel and barge to see that it was not defective or unsafe and failed to provide him with adequate equipment to safely perform the tasks assigned to him.

White claims he sustained injuries to his left knee, low back and legs which caused him to experience pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages and diminution of his earning capacity.

Represented by Lance Mallon of Wood River, White is seeking damages in excess of $100,000 plus costs of the suit.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Andy Matoesian.

07 L 1056