HOUSTON — Towing barge owners are suing dredge pipeline operators, alleging the defendants' negligence led to property damage.
Bouchard Transportation Co. Inc. and tugboat Barbara E. Bouchard Corp. filed a complaint Dec. 9 in the Houston Division of the Southern District of Texas against Goodloe Marine, Inc. and Dredge Perseverance, alleging the defendants breached their duty to conduct dredging operations in a safe manner.
According to the complaint, on June 4, 2015, the plaintiffs' tugboat Barbara E. Bouchard and barge B-240 Flotilla was maneuvering in the Neches River. The suit says suddenly, the defendants' floating dredge pipeline fouled the propellers of the Barbara E. Bouchard.
The lawsuit states the plaintiffs incurred monetary losses for repairs and other expenses amounting to at least $216,846.47. The plaintiffs allege the defendants failed to properly and adequately mark and place radar reflectors on their floating dredge pipeline.
The plaintiffs request trial by jury, compensation for damages of at least $216,846.47, attorney fees, costs of court, pre- and post-judgment interest and all other just relief. They are represented by attorney David R. Walker of Royston, Rayzor, Vickery & Williams in Houston.
Houston Division of the Southern District of Texas Case number 4:16-cv-03622