GALVESTON - Brazoria County resident Ronald Weekley claims he hurt his back when a ship on which he was working ran aground.
A lawsuit filed against Breathwit Marine Contractors on Nov. 17 in Galveston County District Court states Weekley injured himself aboard the Susan last July 1 as he performed unspecified duties.
According to the original petition, the plaintiff was thrown to the deck and sustained a back jury.
He says the defendant failed to provide proper equipment or sufficient crew to perform the task.
"In violation of the duties to its crew and third parties such as the plaintiff, and while on navigable waters, the defendant violated their duty to provide and to maintain the vessel in a safe and seaworthy condition," the suit states.
"The defendant failed to properly conduct, supervise, direct and/or control the operation being conducted at the time."
Court papers also blame Breathwit for failing to provide Weekley with a safe place to work as well as failing to keep the aforementioned equipment under proper control and maintenance.
The plaintiff consequently sues for physical pain, mental anguish, permanent bodily impairment, disfigurement, loss of earning capacity and medical expenses.
A jury trial is requested.
Attorney Jim Cole of Victoria is representing Weekley, and Galveston County 56th District Court Judge Lonnie Cox is presiding over the case.
Case No. 11-cv-1828
Seaman claims injuries when ship ran aground
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