Seaman Files Suit Over Injuries On Docked Ship

A seaman has filed a personal injury suit against two maritime companies, claiming he suffered injuries while his ship was docked in Galveston, Texas in January.

According to the suit Ruben Wesley Knowles Jr. filed against his employer, Reservoir Exploration Technology Inc. and GulfMark Americas Inc. on April 14 in Galveston County District Court, the companies failed to ensure that the M/V Bourbon was seaworthy and free of any potential danger.

The suit claims that on January 11, Knowles was working aboard the Bourbon, which was anchored in the Port of Galveston, when he had an accident the suit did not specify.

Knowles claims the incident caused him to suffer severe and disabling pain to his back, right knee, shoulder, and other parts of his body. He also claims mental anguish and medical expenses.

The suit says that Knowles subsequently became unemployed and the wages and earning capacity he lost rendered him unable to pay for the medical attention he required.

The suit says Reservoir Exploration Technology failed to cover the medical costs, which it claims is a duty owed him by the company.

The suit names GulfMark Americas as a defendant because it allegedly owns the Bourbon.

Knowles seeks compensatory damages and has requested a trial by jury.