Inspector who injured knee while approaching vessel files second suit

Harris County resident Armando Falcon has filed a second suit for an injury he received to his knee while navigating a shore gangway toward a vessel.

As previously reported, Falcon filed suit against Sunoco on March 27, 2012, in Jefferson County District Court, claiming the gangway was not level with the vessel.

Court records show that on Dec. 11 Falcon filed a motion for non-suit, stating he no longer desired to pursue his claims.

On Feb. 27 Falcon filed a second suit against Chapter Genta Maritime in Jefferson County District Court.

According to both lawsuits, on May 16, 2011, Falcon was a petroleum inspector performing inspections at a terminal in Jefferson County. He injured his knee while navigating a shore gangway.

CGM owned the dock, the suit states.

“Defendant’s shore gangway was not level with the vessel gangway and was unfit for safe use at the time of plaintiff’s injury,” the suit states, adding that CGM negligently failed to inspect and maintain its premises and warn him of the danger.

A shore gangway is a narrow, portable platform used as a passage by persons entering or leaving a vessel.

Falcon is suing for his alleged past and future medical expenses, mental anguish, pain, impairment, disfigurement and lost wages, plus all court costs.

Beaumont attorney Matthew Matheny of the Provost Umphrey law firm represents him.

Judge Donald Floyd, 172nd District Court, is assigned to the case.

Case No. E194-006