Quantcast

MADISON - ST. CLAIR RECORD

Thursday, March 28, 2024

Union Pacific worker claims excessive vibration caused injuries

A Union Pacific Railroad Company employee has filed suit against the company, alleging he was injured because of work he performed for the railroad.

John Harris has worked for Union Pacific as a locomotive engineer since May 1973, according to the complaint filed March 31 in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

Because of his work, Harris developed carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome and neuropathy, all of which he was diagnosed with on July 11, 2007, the suit states.

Harris claims he suffered severe injuries to his hands, wrists and arms; he claims he has been caused to undergo severe pain and suffering, incurred medical expenses, incurred a substantial wage loss and loss of fringe benefits and experienced an impaired ability to work.

Union Pacific was negligent by failing to provide Harris with a safe place to work, by failing to provide safe work conditions, equipment and methods, by allowing a locomotive that was not in its proper condition and by failing to provide a locomotive that was free of conditions that endangered its crew's safety, Harris alleges.

Union Pacific also negligently failed to properly inspect its engine for conditions that endangered the safety of its crew, according to the complaint.

Union Pacific's engines were defective because they vibrated excessively, plus the handles and levers on the engines were located so that Harris had to arrange his hands in wrists in awkward positions for extended periods of time, the suit states.

In the two-count suit, Harris is seeking a judgment in excess of $150,000, plus costs.

He is represented by Andrew S. Williams of Schlichter, Bogard and Denton in St. Louis.

ORGANIZATIONS IN THIS STORY

More News