Longshoreman Files Lawsuit Following Forklift Accident
According to LouisianaRecord.com, a longshoreman has filed a lawsuit following a forklift accident aboard a vessel, which resulted in the loss of his leg.
The news source reported that the lawsuit was filed in the Orleans Parish Civil District Court against Volunteer Barge & Transport, Inc.
The victim, a New Orleans man, claims that in June 2014 he was working aboard the River Barde, owned and operated by the defendant. He claims that due to insufficient space aboard the vessel, a forklift rolled over on a hole in its flooring, causing it to impact several aluminum plates that were being stored, which then fell on his leg.
The man claims that the barge floor was unsafe and unseaworthy because of its uneven surface. He also claims that the forklift should not have been operated aboard the vessel, because it did not have proper space to conduct activities.
The lawsuit seeks compensation for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, mental anguish, medical expenses, loss of income and disfigurement.
Our Nationwide Maritime Injury Attorneys Help Injured Longshoremen
As this story allegedly shows, many American longshoremen are placed at risk for injuries because of the negligence of employers. Dock or barge accidents can occur when there are mechanical mishaps or coworker errors, which can result in catastrophic injuries like amputations.
Because of this, maritime workers have unique legal protections. Our experienced maritime accident lawyers can help you utilize the Longshore Act, which provides protections to those injured on land, or other applicable laws to obtain damages if you are injured aboard a vessel, including the claims of unseaworthiness.
Visit our verdicts and settlements to see how we have helped victims of maritime accidents and their family members. In the video above, attorney David Anderson explains what the term unseaworthiness means when it comes to maritime law.
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