Seaman Cong Van Pham is suing Tim Nguyen and his company, My Julie Corp., alleging it was the defendants' fault he got his hand caught in a winch drum.
The suit was filed Dec. 28 in Jefferson County District Court.
According to the lawsuit, on Sept. 13 Pham was serving aboard a commercial shrimping vessel and operating the tri-net drum winch when his right hand became entangled in the lines and reeled into the unguarded drum winch, causing catastrophic injuries to his hand, arm and face.
The U.S. Coastguard evacuated Pham by helicopter. He was hospitalized for three weeks, the suit states.
The suit accuses the defendants of negligently failing to man the vessel and provide the proper training.
The plaintiff is suing for his past and future mental anguish, lost wages, impairment and medical expenses, plus all court costs.
League City attorney Scott Krist represents the plaintiff.
Judge Bob Wortham, 58th District Court, is assigned to the case.
Case No. A191-574