HOUSTON — A civilian seaman is suing the U.S. government, alleging its negligence caused the plaintiff to be injured aboard a ship.
Robert Garceau Jr. filed a complaint Jan. 4 in the Houston Division of the Southern District of Texas against the United States of America, alleging the government failed to provide a seaworthy vessel.
According to the complaint, on Aug. 2, 2016, Garceau was employed by a civilian contractor serving as a crew member for the U.S. vessel, the LCS-3 USS Fort Worth. The suit says Garceau sustained injuries to his left bicep tendon while climbing a vertical ladder out of a pump room.
The lawsuit states Garceau suffered pain and suffering, fright shock and embarrassment, loss of earning capacity and medical expenses. The plaintiff alleges the government failed to provide a safe place to work.
Garceau seeks trial by jury, judgment against the defendant, plus interest, attorney fees, court costs and expenses. He is represented by attorney Dennis M. O'Bryan of O'Bryan Baun Karamanian in Birmingham, Michigan.
Houston Division of the Southern District of Texas Case number 4:17-cv-00011