Seaman sues oil firms for stairway fall injuries

GALVESTON – A Harris County worker brought a lawsuit against his employers for alleged negligence in a 2014 offshore accident.

Arenthius Richard filed a lawsuit against Talos Energy LLC and Talos Energy Operating Co. LLC of Houston on April 17 in the Galveston Division of the Southern District of Texas, claiming liability in a November 2014 incident.

Richard was employed as a galley hand for Oilfield Production Professional Contractors on an offshore rig in the Gulf of Mexico. On or about Nov. 17, 2014, the suit states, he tripped and fell down the galley stairs when allegedly required to carry a heavy load without assistance.

Citing gross negligence, Richard claims that the defendants failed to take reasonable precautions for his safety, provide a safe workplace or offer assistance to complete his duties.

Claiming physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, medical care and expenses, lost work time and lost wages, past and future disability and disfigurement, the plaintiff states that he has been prevented from engaging in his usual occupations, pastimes and pursuits.

Richard seeks: pecuniary damages for medical expenses; punitive damages; pre- and post-judgment interest; attorney’s fees; expenses; and costs. He is represented by Marcus Spagnoletti of Houston.

Galveston Division of the Southern District of Texas case no. 3:15-cv-00087