Seaman trips on vessel doorway, files Jones Act suit

A seaman who tripped while stepping down through a vessel doorway has filed a Jones Act suit against his employer, Noble International, and two of the company's subsidiaries.

Plaintiff Richard Wright filed his suit Sept. 27 in Jefferson County District Court. Noble Drilling Corp. and Noble Drilling Services are also named as defendants.

According to the lawsuit, Wright was hurt when stepped down through a doorway on the vessel he was serving aboard and fell, injuring his hip.

Although the suit does not state when the incident occurred, the document does allege, however, that the incident occurred because the defendants negligently failed to provide a handrail, clearly mark the steps, and also failed to provide a non-slip surface on the steps.

Wright further alleges the vessel was unseaworthy.

He is suing for his alleged past and future medical expenses, mental anguish, pain, impairment, disfigurement and lost wages, plus all court costs.

Beaumont attorney Tommy Yeates of Moore Landrey represents him.

Judge Gary Sanderson, 6oth District Court, is assigned to the case.

Case No. B191-013