Union Pacific sued over machine operator's injuries

A Union Pacific Railroad employee says he sustained injuries to his left knee while working for the company.

Gary L. Weems filed a lawsuit Feb. 12 in Madison County Circuit Court against Union Pacific Railroad.

Weems claims he began working as a machine operator for the company in November 1984. Since then, he has had to perform tasks using tools provided by the company and methods set forth by the railroad, resulting in cumulative trauma.

According to the complaint, because of his work, Weems sustained severe and permanent injuries to his left knee, which has caused him pain and anguish; lost earnings; and incurred medical expenses.

He blames Union Pacific for causing his injuries, saying the railroad company failed to provide him with a safe place to work and with proper tools, failed to provide him with safe work methods and adequate supervision and failed to warn him of the risk of cumulative trauma leading to his injuries.

In his complaint, Weems seeks a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs.

Michael G. Burnworth of Blunt Slocomb in Edwardsville will be representing him.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 10-L-63.