Man injured by falling stack of materials files lawsuit

A man seeks to reclaim medical costs he incurred while working after a pile of stacked materials fell on his left arm.

Michael Chad Stutes filed a lawsuit June 14 in Jefferson County District Court against AZZ Inc.

Stutes claims he was working at the premises of AZZ Inc., a manufacturer of galvanized electrical and industrial products, at 5898 Industrial Road in Beaumont on May 18.

Stutes, who was there to pick up supplies, was helping a forklift driver to load materials onto Stutes's trailer when the incident occurred, according to the complaint.

"Plaintiff alleges that without warning the driver of the forklift caused the materials to fall, and that such materials fell upon Plaintiff's left hand and arm," the suit states.

Because of the fall, Stutes suffered a fractured left hand, wrist and arm and sustained injuries to the top of his head, the complaint says. In addition, he claims he experienced physical pain, suffering, mental anguish, physical impairment and disfigurement; incurred medical costs; and lost wages and household services.

Stutes blames AZZ for causing his injuries, saying its employee negligently dropped the load and the company failed to properly train its employee.

In his complaint, Stutes seeks an unspecified judgment, plus pre- and post-judgment interest at the highest legal rate, costs and other relief the court deems just.

Tommy L. Yeates of Moore and Landrey in Beaumont will be representing him.

Judge Gary Sanderson, 60th District Court, has been assigned to the case.

Case No. B190-273