American River Transportation sued in federal court

Roy Morefield filed a Jones Act suit against American River Transportation Co. in U.S. District Court Nov. 6 seeking damages in excess of $100,000 for injuries he allegedly sustained while working on the M/V Crimson Glory.

Represented by Marc Parker of The Lakin Law Firm in Wood River, Morefield alleges he was severely injured on Dec. 5, 2005, while in the performance of his duties.

Morefield claims that American River Transportation Co. violated the provisions of the Jones Act by failing in its 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 American River's vessel, equipment, and appurtenances were at the time of the accident unseaworthy and not fit for their intended purposes.

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

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

The case has been assigned to District Judge William Stiehl.