Seaman files Jones Act suit against marine services company

A man has filed suit against his employer, alleging he sustained severe and disabling injuries while working on a tug boat.

Joseph R. Dean, a seaman, claims he was working on the Bailey Ann, which was owned by defendant Coral Marine Services, on April 7 when he was injured while performing his normal work duties.

Although he doesn't specify how he was injured, Dean claims he suffered physical pain and mental anguish, lost wages and incurred medical costs because of the incident, according to the complaint filed Feb. 19 in Jefferson County District Court. In addition, he suffered permanent physical impairment, the suit states.

Coral Marine has refused to pay for Dean's medical costs he incurred as a result of the accident, which has caused Dean to incur additional expenses, the complaint states.

Dean is seeking actual, exemplary and punitive damages, attorney's fees, pre- and post-judgment interest, costs and other relief the court deems just.

Francis I. Spagnoletti of Spagnoletti and Co. in Houston will be representing Dean.

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

Jefferson County District Court case number: E186-084.