MADISON - ST. CLAIR RECORD

A man has filed suit against his employer, alleging he was seriously injured after a metal ball attached to a crane fell on his head.

Robert Vandygriff claims he was working for defendant National Maintenance and Repair on July 20, 2009, when he sustained a closed head injury, facial lacerations and neck and back injuries when a large metal ball attached to a crane fell suddenly and struck his head.

Because of the incident, Vandygriff suffered permanent injuries to his head, brain, face, eye, neck and low back and lost wages, according to the complaint filed March 31 in
Madison County Circuit Court.

Since the accident, National Maintenance and Repair has paid for Vandygriff's medical costs, but Vandygriff claims he should be receiving more money -- at least $45 per day.

He also blames National Maintenance and Repair for causing his injuries, saying it negligently failed to provide him with adequate training; failed to inspect Vandygriff's work area for hazards; and failed to provide Vandygriff with safe tools, with adequate supervision and with adequate assistance, the suit states.

In addition, Vandygriff claims that for at least a week prior to the incidence the boat on which he was working at the time -- the Barge BB-1 -- was not seaworthy because its crane operator was not properly trained.

In his three-count complaint, Vandygriff is seeking an unspecified judgment, plus costs, attorney's fees, pre-judgment interest and other relief the court deems just.

Vandygriff will be represented by Samuel A. Mormino Jr. of Mormino, Velloff, Edmonds and Snider in Alton.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 11-L-296.