Seaman Jones files Jones Act suit after fall from ladder

Nederland resident Timothy David Jones filed a Jones Act suit against his employer, Cal Dive Offshore Contractors.

According to the complaint filed July 22 in the Beaumont Division of the Eastern District of Texas, Jones was employed as a seaman doing oiler and mechanic work on board a Cal Dive barge.

On Nov. 7, 2008, he climbed a ladder to access a diesel generator.

While the ship was tossed by choppy seas, Jones states he was descending the ladder when he slipped. He was able to catch himself with his arm, but claims the fall caused serious and permanent injuries.

The plaintiff is seeking maintenance and cure, attorneys' fees, medical expenses, damages for physical pain and mental anguish, loss of earnings, physical impairment and loss of consortium.

Brandon Monk of The Monk Law Firm in Port Arthur is representing the plaintiff.

The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Thad Heartfield.

Case No. 1:09-cv-007-TH