Jones Act suit filed in Madison County

Arie Earl Gillespie filed a Jones Act suit in Madison County Circuit Court March 9 against Marquette Transportation Company for injuries he received while working as the chief engineer aboard the M/V Stephen Colby on Feb. 11, 2004.

Gillespie claims that while working on the vessel, which was dry-docked on the Mississippi River in Madison County on Feb. 11, 2004, he was severely injured when he fell on an uneven surface of the shaft alley on the Stephen Colby.

According to the complaint, Gillespie was made sick, sore, lame and disordered. He claims he suffered extensive injuries to his right shoulder, lost money from wages in the past and future, a loss of earning capacity and now has a permanent disfigurement and a disability which he will continue to have in the future.

Gillespie, represented by Jones Act specialist Craig Jensen of the Lakin Law Firm in Wood River, claims Marquette failed to provide him with a reasonably safe place to work, suitable equipment, proper supervision, and failed to provide proper man power to perform his duties.

Gillespie is seeking at least $100,000, as well as costs of the suit, prejudgment interest, and any other relief the court deems just and proper. He also is seeking damages in an amount not less than $40 a day for maintenance and cure, claiming he has not yet reached a point of maximum cure and Marquette has failed to meet its duty under General Maritime Law to provide for full and adequate maintenance and cure for his injuries.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Andy Matoesian.

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