Deckhand Falls with 100-Pound Weight on His Shoulder

Arnold & Itkin recently filed suit on behalf of a towboat deckhand who was injured while making tow on the Mississippi River. His employer had him carrying heavy spools across barges that lacked step downs and nonskid, and our client slipped with a 100-pound spool over his shoulder, severely injuring his back. As we see too often, our client’s bosses discouraged him from seeking medical treatment or reporting the injury. On top of that, the company has denied him the maintenance and cure he’s owed as an injured seaman.

Offshore work is sometimes hazardous by nature, but employers are obligated to ensure that the work environment is as safe as possible. Step downs and nonskid flooring are the least an employer should provide to their workers, especially workers who are carrying heavy loads without mechanical assistance. We’re glad this deckhand has entrusted us with his case, and we will fight for the best result this man deserves.

We filed suit in St. Louis, Missouri.