UTi Integrated worker claims retaliatory discharge

A Centreville man claims he was fired for trying to claim workers' compensation after an on-the-job forklift accident.

In a lawsuit filed Dec. 29 in St. Clair County Circuit Court, Carl Harrison accuses UTi Integrated Logistics Inc. of improper termination.

Harrison says he was working for UTi as a forklift operator in November 2010 when he claims he was hurt on the job. He says he was trying to move a dock plate when the injury happened.

Harrison says he reported the injury to his managers and received medical treatment. He says he filed a workers' compensation claim for the medical expenses.

After filing the claim, Harrison says he was fired. He contends his termination was an act of retaliation.

Harrison is asking for more than $50,000 in damages for wrongful termination and lost wages. He also seeks punitive damages.

Attorney Mark S. Schuven of Belleville is representing Harrison.

St. Clair County Circuit Court Case No. 10-L-673