Mississippi seaman files Jones Act lawsuit after suffering impact wrench injury

A seafarer has filed a $2 million Jones Act lawsuit against his employer from injuries on the job.

The Louisiana Record reports that Mississippi resident Trent A. McDowell filed the claim on Aug. 4 in New Orleans federal court against defendants Atlantic Sounding Co. Inc. and Weeks Marine Inc.

Court records said that the alleged incident occurred on May 22 as McDowell was employed on the Dredge G.D. Morgan. While trying to break loose a bolt above his head with a high powered impact wrench on the pumping system, the wrench moved suddenly, “trapping and injuring him.”

McDowell seeks over $2 million for physical, mental and emotional pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of enjoyment of life and loss of wages and earning capacity.

Accusations include negligence for an unsafe work place, failure to provide proper supervision and adequate training and failure to provide reasonably safe means and methods for the task.