Barge worker files Jones Act complaint in federal court

Lonnie Harrell filed a Jones Act suit against Teco Barge Line in U.S. District Court April 12, seeking damages in excess of 100,000 for injuries he allegedly sustained while working on the M/V Ms. T.

Represented by Marc Parker of The Lakin Law Firm in Wood River, Harrell alleges he was severely injured on April 18, 2003, while in the performance of his duties.

Harrell claims that Teco violated the provisions of the Jones Act by failing in their legal duty to provide him with a reasonably safe place to work, reasonably safe tools and equipment, sufficient and competent assistance and sufficient and competent supervision and training.

He also claims that Teco's vessel, equipment, and appurtenances were at the time of the accident unseaworthy and not fit for their intended purposes.

According to the complaint, Harrell sustained severe and permanent injuries to his back, lost wages, suffered a loss of earning capacity, past and future pain and suffering, has become obligated for medical expenses and has a temporary total disability in the past and will have a permanent partial disability in the future.

Harrell also is seeking a judgment against Teco for maintenance and cure in an amount not less than $40 per day.

The case has been assigned to District Judge Phil Gilbert.

06-4076-JPG