Trial News

Andrew Knight, 53, worked as an offshore tankerman for Kirby Offshore Marine Pacific L.L.C. While Knight was working aboard the towing vessel M/V Sea Hawk off the Alaska coast, the ship’s captain directed him to replace a towing line. Knight stepped on a mooring line running over the stern of the vessel and injured his right ankle. He required multiple surgeries and has not been able to return to his job, at which he had earned $543 per day.

Knight sued Kirby Offshore, alleging failure to provide a safe workplace. The plaintiff asserted that the defendant negligently required him to work in conditions that posed a risk to his safety, specifically rough seas and wind.

The defense argued that the conditions had been appropriate and that changing the towing line was a routine operation.

The court awarded approximately $343,600, finding the plaintiff 50% at fault. The case is reportedly on appeal.

Citation: Knight v. Kirby Offshore Marine Pacific L.L.C., No. 2:17CV12456 (E.D. La. Sept. 2019).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ members Paul M. Sterbcow and Ian F. Taylor, both of New Orleans.

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