Rebar on bridge causes worker to trip, sustain broken bones

A man alleges he tripped over rebar while working on a bridge, causing him to break various bones.

Kent Lawson filed a complaint Aug. 31 in Madison County Circuit Court against RCS Construction.

Lawson claims he was working as a laborer for PS Deppe on May 6, 2008, when the incident occurred.

RCS had hired PS Deppe to assist in the construction, erection, modification and repair of a bridge about four miles west of Hamel in Madison County, according to the complaint.

On May 8, 2008, Lawson was assigned to cut rebar on the bridge, the suit states. However, rebar should not have been on the bridge because it constitutes a tripping hazard, the complaint says.

"While moving through his work area Plaintiff tripped over the rebar," the suit states. "Plaintiff lost his balance and fell forward."

In addition to his broken bones, Lawson claims he sustained bruises, became sore and disordered, experienced permanent disability and suffered pain because of his fall. He also incurred medical costs, lost wages and experienced an impaired earning capacity, according to the complaint.

Lawson blames RCS for failing to keep its property in a safe condition, for failing to provide proper safety oversight, for failing to warn Lawson of the dangerous condition at the job site, for negligently supervising employees and for violating safety standards.

In the three-count suit, Lawson is seeking a judgment of more than $150,000, plus costs.

Chris Kolker of Kolker Law Offices in Belleville will be representing him.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-905.