More than two years ago, Lee Rachal hurt his knee while serving on a vessel owned by Moran Towing of Texas, Inc. Claiming the vessel was unseaworthy, Rachal is suing the towing company.
His suit was filed in the Jefferson County District Court on Feb. 13.
Rachal's suit exceeds the statue of limitations, which is two years from the date of the injury.
According to the plaintiff's petition, on Nov. 1, 2005, Rachal was serving as chief mate aboard the Amy Moran when he injured his left knee and back.
"Such injuries occurred as a proximate result of the unsafe and unseaworthy condition of the vessels and its appurtenances, which was owned, operated and maintained by the Defendant," the suit said. "In addition, said accidents were caused in whole or in part, as a proximate result of negligence on the part of the Defendant and its agents employees."
The suit fails to describe how Rachal injured himself or how Moran Towing negligently caused the incident.
"As a result of said incidents, Plaintiff sustained injury to his person and has sustained and will sustain in the future the following damages: physical pain; mental anguish; a loss of earnings; loss of earning capacity; medical, hospital and pharmaceutical expenses; loss of life's pleasures; loss of physical capacity; disfigurement; and loss of ability to perform household services," the suit said.
Rachal is represented by Houston attorney Harold Eisenman.
Judge Bob Wortham, 58th Judicial District, has been assigned to the case.
Case No. A181-231