In a gripping legal battle that highlights the perils faced by maritime workers, a Texas seaman has filed a lawsuit against his former employers, alleging negligence and unsafe working conditions. Jamal Bouldin initiated the complaint on December 20, 2024, in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, targeting Centerline Logistics Corporation and Harley Marine Gulf LLC.
The lawsuit details Bouldin's claims that while employed as a seaman aboard the M/V Raymond Butler, he suffered severe injuries due to the defendants' failure to maintain a safe working environment. According to the complaint, Bouldin was subjected to hazardous conditions on October 30, 2023, which included frigid temperatures and heavy physical labor without adequate safety measures or equipment. The plaintiff accuses Centerline Logistics Corporation and Harley Marine Gulf LLC of multiple counts of negligence under the Jones Act and general maritime law. These include failing to provide a seaworthy vessel, neglecting to warn about impending dangers, and not supplying proper medical assistance after his injury.
Bouldin's legal representation argues that these oversights resulted in significant physical harm and ongoing suffering for their client. The complaint states: "Plaintiff was hurt and injured in his health, strength, and activity," leading to both immediate pain and potential long-term disability. Furthermore, Bouldin claims that he incurred substantial medical expenses and loss of income due to the incident.
In addition to seeking compensation for medical costs and lost wages, Bouldin is pursuing punitive damages against the defendants for their alleged willful neglect in providing maintenance and cure—a maritime obligation requiring employers to care for injured seamen until they recover or reach maximum medical improvement. The lawsuit underscores this point by stating: "Defendants’ failure to provide maintenance and cure has caused additional injuries to Plaintiff."
The case is being handled by attorneys Vuk Vujasinovic and Job Tennant from VB Attorneys based in Houston. They are pushing for a jury trial where they aim to secure general damages according to proof presented during proceedings. The presiding judge over this matter is yet unnamed but will be responsible for determining whether Bouldin’s allegations hold merit under maritime law.
This case has been assigned Case ID 2024-10964 within Harris County's judicial system.