Furniture mover sues over neck injury

A man has filed suit against his former employer, alleging his neck was seriously injured when he attempted to lift a heavy object as part of his job duties.

Gary Crissman claims he was lifting and carrying heavy pieces of furniture as part of his job for Burris Transfer and Storage Co. on Dec. 19 when he sustained a severe injury to his neck that requires surgery.

Because of the incident, Crissman sustained severe physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, permanent impairment and physical disfigurement, according to the complaint filed Sept. 28 in Jefferson County District Court. In addition, he has incurred medical costs and lost wages, the suit states.

Burris Transfer negligently failed to properly train Crissman how to safely perform his job duties, failed to properly supervise Crissman, failed to provide Crissman with the proper tools to safely perform his work and failed to employ a sufficient number of co-workers to perform the work, the complaint says.

Because Burris Transfer is a non-subscriber to workers' compensation, Crissman claims he is eligible to file the complaint.
Crissman is seeking actual damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, costs and other relief the court deems just.

Brent S. Freefield of Rad Law Firm in Dallas will be representing him.

The case has been assigned to Judge Donald Floyd, 172nd District Court.

Jefferson County District Court case number: E185-005.