Forklift driver "bumps" truck, injures driver

A routine pick up for a truck driver left him permanently brain damaged when the forklift driver "bumped" into a side rail of the truck.

James M. Martin, III, is suing Lockwood International, Inc. for negligently failing to provide a safe place to work. He filed his personal injury lawsuit against the company with the Jefferson County District Court on May 10.

"Lockwood International, Inc. is a family owned and operated company founded in 1977 supplying valves to customers all over the globe," the company's Web site said.

According to the plaintiff's petition, Martin parked the truck on Lockwood's premises. A defendant "employee responsible for loading pallets on the truck with a forklift bumped into a side rail of the truck, causing another side rail of the truck to fall and forcefully hit Martin on the head."

"As a result, Martin suffered severe and permanent injuries, including brain and eye injuries," the suit said. "Martin has also experienced pain, suffering and mental anguish as a result of his injuries."

The two count suit faults Lockwood with negligence and premises liability.

"Lockwood had a duty to Martin to warn him of the unreasonably dangerous condition," the suit said.

Marin is suing for all damages and court costs, and is demanding a trial by jury.

He is represented by attorney Stephen Foster of the Arnold & Itkin law firm.

Court assignment is pending.

Case No. B179-286