Matoesian
A tow boat operator's suit against his former employer is set for trial on Monday.
Plaintiff Paul Dawdy is suing Lewis & Clark Marine Inc. of Granite City for alleged violations of the Jones Act.
The trial is set to open at 9 a.m.
Dawdy's suit seeks medical expenses in excess of $10,000 and damages of at least $50,000 and costs.
In his complaint, Dawdy alleges that he was injured aboard the Velda Taylor, a tow boat. He fell overboard when he tripped over a loose metal cable in November 2006. He became pinned between the boat and the dock.
He alleges that the defendant failed to provide a safe work place and to provide a seaworthy vessel.
Lewis and Clark has a counterclaim pending against Dawdy as well.
It alleges that Dawdy failed to exercise reasonable care, contributed to his own accident and that he was not physically fit to do his duties and concealed that fact.
Due to Dawdy's alleged failure to disclose his medical problems prior to is hiring, the company asks that it be allowed to recover $120,421.61 in interest, attorney's fees and costs.
Dawdy is represented by Cory Itkin.
Lewis and Clark Marine is represented by James Mondl.
Madison County Circuit Judge Andreas Matoesian presides.
The case is Madison case number 07-L-626.