Maintenance worker blames Union Pacific for cumulative trauma in suit

A man claims he sustained neck, back and spine injuries after he was exposed to cumulative trauma throughout his work for a railroad company.

Matthew Williams filed a lawsuit March 15 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Union Pacific Railroad.

In his complaint, Williams alleges he was working in Union Pacific’s maintenance department since 1998. Because of the nature of his job, Williams suffered from injuries to his neck, back and spine; experienced severe pain and suffering; and incurred medical costs, according to the complaint. He also suffered mental anguish and anxiety, incurred medical costs and lost wages, the suit states.

Williams blames Union Pacific for causing his injuries, saying the railroad failed to provide him with adequate assistance, failed to minimize his exposure to vibrations while working, failed to provide him with safe methods for working, failed to periodically test employees for effects of cumulative trauma, failed to warn him of the risk factors of developing cumulative trauma musculoskeletal disorders of the spine and failed to provide him with adequate equipment, among other negligent actions.

Williams seeks a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs.

Nelson G. Wolff and Jacob C. Murov of Schlichter, Bogard and Denton in Belleville will be representing him.

St. Clair County Circuit Court case number: 13-L-143.