5 workers plunge 80 feet into the Gulf, file Jones Act lawsuit

A group of five workers who fell 80 feet into the Gulf of Mexico during a bridge removal project has filed a Jones Act case against Tetra Technologies, Baton Rouge Injury Lawyer Blog.com reports.

The case record states that last May, while being assigned to the D/B Tetra, the workers were removing the bridge that connected two sections of an oil production platform. They cut away the support structures and attached four nylon straps to the bridge. When the crane failed to raise and remove the bridge, the straps hung loose.

Next, they were allegedly ordered to climb onto the bridge to determine how to remove it. While conducting an examination of the bridge from the top, one end collapsed and the entire group dropped 80 feet into the water.

The plaintiffs are Josue Olvera Armijo, Jose Luis Ponce-Zuniga, Kyle Ivy, Derrick Picou and Abraham Mayorga. Tetra stands accused of multiple counts of negligence.

They seek compensation for injuries caused not only by falling into the water but by being hit by objects falling from the collapsed bridge. Other requested damages include permanent disability, pain and suffering, medical expenses and lost wages. Punitive damages are also sought.