A maintenance technician's family has filed a wrongful death suit in connection with a crane accident which occurred last year. Nolan Knoblock, Jr. was killed while attempting to change a light bulb in the West Bridge section of the Louisiana Offshore Oil Port Marine Terminal after a crane he was using as a work platform malfunctioned. According to reports, the crane unexpectedly lurched forward and pinned Knoblock against a wall. Soon after being freed, Knoblock died from his injuries. An accident investigation revealed the malfunction resulted from a problem with the crane's control wiring. Knoblock's family has accused Offshore Process Services Inc., Konecranes Inc., Donavan Meyer Associates Inc., Oil States Martec Crane Services Inc., Oil States MCS Inc., and Oil States Industries Inc. of negligence for failing to properly maintain the crane and for certifying the crane's safety. Knoblock's family is seeking money damages for Knoblock's pain and suffering before he died, loss of society, loss of service and support, mental anguish, medical expenses, and punitive damages. Although the family filed its lawsuit in Tangipahoa Parish District Court, the case was removed to a New Orleans federal court in late November. A wrongful death award is designed to provide compensation to the family members of an individual who was killed through another party's negligence or wrongful act. In Louisiana, only a surviving spouse, children, parents, or guardians may file a wrongful death lawsuit. In limited circumstances, siblings or grandparents may also be entitled to file such a suit. Louisiana law requires plaintiffs to file their wrongful death lawsuit within two years from the date of a loved one's death. Because of this, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after a tragic death. If your loved one has been killed due to someone else's negligence or wrongful act, you may be entitled to damages for pain and suffering, loss of companionship, loss of future wages and benefits, medical bills, funeral costs and other losses. In some circumstances, you may also be entitled to punitive damages. Our Contact J. Price McNamara ERISA Insurance Claim Attorney can help you evaluate your legal options. Contact J. Price McNamara, a Baton Rouge personal injury lawyer, to schedule a free evaluation of your case. Our experienced wrongful death attorneys represent clients throughout Louisiana including: Baton Rouge, Metairie, New Orleans, Lafayette, and Mandeville. Call to speak with us toll free at (866) 248-0580 today.
J. Price McNamara
Attorney
Losing my own brother, then my father and sister after long, disabling illnesses just a few months apart drove a career change for me. Before that experience, I never truly understood the place you’re in. I never understood the dramatic impact that receiving (or not receiving) the disability and life insurance benefits you paid for and counted on can have on your life especially when you need to focus on family and healing. What I experienced with my own family now drives the way I view my clients and my work, and I will never forget it!
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