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Admiralty Law Keyed to Maraist
Gautreaux v. Scurlock Marine, Inc.
Citation:
107 F.3d 331, 1997 AMC 1521 (1997)Facts
Charles Gautreaux was hired as a relief captain for the M/V BROOKE LYNN in October 1993. The vessel was equipped with two towing winches, including an electric winch on the port side that had a manual crank handle. Gautreaux was shown how to use the manual crank to “unbind” the winch if it failed to engage with the electric ignition switch, but was not warned against leaving the crank on the winch when using the electric switch. In February 1994, while serving as captain, Gautreaux attempted to release a taut towing wire from the port winch. When the electric winch wouldn’t work, he attached the manual crank and began turning it while simultaneously pressing the electric ignition switch. When the motor started, the crank handle flew off and struck Gautreaux in the face, crushing his right eye and causing severe injuries. Gautreaux sued Scurlock Marine, alleging negligence and unseaworthiness, primarily claiming that the company failed to properly train him in the safe operation of the winch.
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