Welder's trial starts Monday in case against Union Pacific

A trial is scheduled to begin Monday in St. Clair County Circuit Judge Vincent Lopinot’s courtroom in a welder’s lawsuit against Union Pacific Railroad Co.

Donald Currie alleges he sustained injuries to his lower back because of tasks he was assigned to throughout his career.

In one incident, Currie claims he was performing track maintenance duties in May 2007, when he sustained injuries to his lower back.

He also claims he was working on the main line track in Springfield, Mo. in January 2010, when he again sustained injuries while lifting heavy equipment.

He blames Union Pacific for causing his injuries, saying the company failed to provide him with safe equipment and tools, failed to provide sufficient and adequate assistance to perform the work, failed to provide him with safe work methods and failed to provide him with safe conditions for work.

Currie seeks a judgment of more than $50,000.

Roger C. Denton represents the plaintiff.

Thomas Jones represents the defense.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 10-L-206.