Repetitive injuries claimed in suit against Union Pacific

A former employee claims a dozen years worth of work for Union Pacific has left him with serious injuries.

James E. Case Jr. filed a lawsuit June 22 in St. Clair Circuit Court against Union Pacific Railroad Company.

According to the complaint, Case provided maintenance for Union Pacific trains from 1997 through 2009. He says his body endured repetitive stress and force that eventually led to serious injuries.

Case says he learned of injuries to his shoulder, neck and back allegedly caused by his work at Union Pacific. He contends his former employer was negligent for allegedly requiring him to lift and carry heavy, awkward things, failing to provide proper equipment and failing to provide an ergonomically-sound workplace.

Case is asking to be awarded more than $50,000 in damages for pain and suffering, mental anguish, lost income and disability.

Attorney William P. Gavin of Belleville is representing Case.

St. Clair County Circuit Court Case No. 11-L-300