Norfolk Southern worker alleges poor working conditions caused spinal injuries

A Madison County rail worker is suing his employer over alleged work-related injuries. .

Sam Warden filed a lawsuit on April 1 in Madison County Circuit Court against Norfolk Southern Railway Co.

According to the complaint, Warden worked as a brakeman, conductor or switchman for Norfolk Southern in Alton and Roxana and  was regularly required to operate heavy equipment, climb and dismount moving equipment, negotiate ballast and rock areas on foot, and to ride on sparsely appointed locomotives. The suit says Warden was diagnosed with neck and spine injuries and that his injuries were caused by his job duties.

Warden claims his employer failed to provide a workplace with safe conditions, methods, engines and tools, failed to provide protection from exposure to cumulative trauma, failed to provide adequate training, protective equipment, and adequate seating, among other things.

The plaintiff alleges damage to his spine, bones, discs, nerves and soft tissues. He cites physical pain, mental anguish, medical expenses, lost wages and benefits, and loss of normal life pursuits. Warden alleges any preexisting spinal conditions were exacerbated by his work conditions.

\Warden seeks damages in excess of $50,000, plus attorney fees and costs. He is represented by attorney Christopher Dysart of the Dysart Law Firm in Chesterfield, Mo.

Madison County Circuit Court case number 15-L-450