Barge worker claims hip injuries over rigging accident

A former Columbia Marine Service employee has filed suit against the company, alleging his left hip was injured after rigging fell on it.

Robert Acup was working as a deckhand and member of the crew of the M/V Cindy L on the Upper Mississippi River near East Carondolet on June 27, 2007, when the incident happened at 4 a.m., according to the complaint filed Oct. 20 in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

"Plaintiff was performing his assigned task of moving rigging when he slipped and the weight of the rigging shifted onto his left hip," the suit states.

Columbia Marine Services has failed and refused to pay for Acup's medical care, he claims.

In addition to his hip injury, Acup claims he incurred substantial medical costs, pain and suffering, disability and a loss of wages.

Columbia Marine Service was negligent because it failed to provide Acup with adequate assistance and adequate lighting and failed to inspect for slip hazards, according to the complaint.

In the three-count suit, Acup is seeking a judgment in excess of $100,000, plus costs, pre-judgment interest and attorney's fees.

Roy C. Dripps of The Lakin Law Firm in Wood River will be representing Acup.