Case Results

DISCLAIMER: Please note that every case is different and these verdicts and settlements, while accurate, do not represent what we may obtain for you in your case.

Jones Act seaman settles case against Blake Offshore (now Spartan Offshore Drilling); fall due to missing grate; neck injury with surgery

Alfred was a Jones Act seaman employed by Blake Offshore (now Spartan Offshore Drilling) as a laborer.  Alfred was working on one of the company's jack-up rigs in the Gulf of Mexico.  There was an overflow of fluids in the sump room, and the liquids collected on the floor.  Alfred's coworker went to the sump room to address the problem.  In order to fix the overflowing tank, the coworker had to remove grating over which other employees usually walk.  When he finished his work, this coworker did not replace the grate.  Alfred was called to the sump room to assist in addressing the problem.  Alfred stepped on the grating and it gave way, causing him to fall.

Alfred mainly hurt his neck.  He ended up having a neck surgery because of his injury.

As a Jones Act seaman, Alfred was entitled to maintenance and cure benefits.  But the company was giving Alfred the run around on this. 

Alfred hired Vujasinovic & Beckcom to help him get his maintenance and cure benefits.  In addition, V&B lawyers filed a Jones Act lawsuit on Alfred's behalf.

The company and its lawyers denied Alfred's claims and fought the case hard.  They said Alfred was at fault, Alfred was lying, and Alfred was exagerrating.  They even secretly videotaped Alfred engaged in outdoor activities with his wife and children.

V&B lawyers turned all of this around on the company, and proved Alfred's liability and damages cases.  The law firm negotiated the settlement at mediation.

The settlement was for $900,000.  Attorney fees were $360,000.  The firm advanced $35,000 in case expenses.

Awarded: $900,000 settlement; $360,000 attorney fee; $35,000 expenses