LOGAN — A Mingo County couple is suing Charleston coal mining operators, alleging their negligence and unsafe work environment led to the husband sustaining injuries.
Randy Layne Jr. and Chassidy Layne filed a lawsuit Oct. 31 in Logan Circuit Court against Alpha Natural Resources Inc. and Highland Mining Company, alleging violation of mandatory MSHA surface mine haulage safety regulations.
According to the complaint, as a result of defendants' actions and inactions, on Dec. 9, 2015, at the Reylas Surface Mine in Logan County, Randy Layne suffered physical and psychological injuries, including to his back, right arm and left knee, resulting in loss of earning capacity, disability, loss of enjoyment of life, and medical expenses. The suit says Layne was injured after falling 5 feet from a mounting ladder.
The lawsuit alleges Chassidy Layne suffered loss of society and companionship.
The plaintiffs allege the defendants intentionally exposed Randy Layne to an unsafe condition of the mounting ladder, failed to repair or replace the ladder and failed to provide a safe place to work.
The Laynes seek trial by jury, compensatory damages, court costs, fees and expenses, pre-and post-judgment interest, plus all other relief the court deems just. They are represented by attorneys Guy R. Bucci and Ashley N. Lunch of Bucci & Lynch in Charleston, and by Greg K. Smith and Matthew E. Chandler of the Law Offices of Greg K. Smith in Williamson.
Logan Circuit Court Case number 16-c-234
