HOUSTON — A crew member injured aboard a container vessel is claiming negligence after a bow line was released without warning.
Kenneth E. Benton filed a complaint Dec. 16 against Maersk Line, Limited alleging negligence.
Benton, according to his complaint was working for Maersk aboard the M/V Maersk Detroit container vessel. He claims that on Oct. 17, 2021, he was working the lines of the bow of the vessel when the 2nd mate released a line under tension without warning before it was clear.
He further claims the released line was pulled off the deck and wrapped around his leg which caused him to be knocked off his feet and thrown onto the deck. Benton alleges as a result of the accident, he suffered injuries to his leg, ankle, lower back and other parts of his body. He claims Maersk's negligence for failing to provide a safe work environment, failing to properly inspect and maintain the vessel along with its equipment. He also claims Maersk operated the vessel in an unsafe and improper manner and failed to provide him with assistance.
Benton seeks monetary relief, interest, trial by jury and all other just relief. He is represented by Matthew D. Shaffer and Laura B. De La Cruz of Schechter, Shaffer & Harris LLP in Houston.
Harris County District Court case number 2021-81859