Railroad worker claims injuries after 40 years on the job

A man blames a railroad company for wrist, shoulder and spinal injuries he says he incurred after working for the company.

Larry E. Swinford filed a lawsuit Dec. 2 in Madison County Circuit Court against Norfolk Southern Railway Company.

Swinford claims he worked as a trackman for Norfolk Southern for about 40 years.

Throughout his career, Swinford became repeatedly exposed to an unreasonably safe workplace, became required to walk on a bad ballast and became forced to work in awkward positions, according to the complaint. In addition, he worked without sufficient manpower, became required to work excessive hours, did not have proper tools and became exposed to excessive vibrations, the suit states.

As a result, Swinford suffered severe injuries, pain and suffering; lost wages and benefits; incurred medical costs; and suffered an overall decline in his quality of life, the complaint says.

Swinford seeks a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs.

Robert W. Schmieder of Pratt and Tobin in East Alton will be representing him.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-1301.