According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), “Marine accidents killed 1,163 people and caused $197 million in insured losses in 2017.”
The maritime injury law attorneys at The Law Offices of Blaine Barrilleaux believe in seeking justice on behalf of injured victims. We understand medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses can become a financial burden on you and your family, however, our team can help. In order to conclude what legal options are available, our attorneys will need to review the various aspects of your case.
In many cases, following safety procedures could help reduce the number of injuries that occur each year on the water, however, these measures are not always enforced.
What Causes Maritime Accidents?
Maritime accidents happen for numerous reasons such as human error and/or work environment hazards.
Some of the most common human mistakes that lead to maritime accidents include the following:
- Fatigue
- Drugs and alcohol use
- Stress
- Lack of adequate training
- Inability to make rational decisions
- Communication skills
The most common work environment hazards that result in accidents include:
- Fires
- Chemical spills
- Moving cargo
- Weather conditions
- Poor steering
- Colliding with another vessel
- Unsecured equipment
Seven of the Most Common Maritime Injuries
The severity of your injury will depend on the extent of the accident. Listed below are some of the most common types of injuries victims of maritime accidents experience, however, injuries are not limited to these alone:
- Head injuries
- Chemical burns
- Back injuries
- Slip and falls
- Broken bones
- Drowning
- Hypothermia
If you were injured in a maritime accident, it’s crucial that you are aware of the necessary steps to take.
What to Do After a Maritime Accident
If you were injured while working at sea, you may be covered under the Jones Act. The Jones Act is a maritime injury law that pertains to seamen or merchant marines who are hurt while aboard ships. The act provides compensation when an injury occurs secondary to the negligence of a fellow seaman, the vessel’s owner, the captain, or another member of the vessel’s crew.
However, the manner in which you proceed after an accident can either support or damage your claim. The following tips can help you make the right decisions after being hurt while at sea.
Report the accident immediately after it occurs
If you wait to report an accident, you could damage your right to any compensation for your injuries.
Seek medical attention
Even if you assume your injuries are minor, it’s best to be evaluated by a medical professional.
Take photos of the scene and any injuries
Evidence is crucial in these types of cases. Make sure to take photos of the area where the accident happened and of the injuries you sustained.
Contact our Lafayette maritime lawyers
These types of cases can be complex and challenging to file without legal advice. With our team, you can trust that your case is in experienced hands.
Keeping these tips in mind after an accident can help strengthen your claim if you decide to seek compensation for what you experienced.
Ways to Reduce Maritime Accidents
In order to help reduce accidents, our maritime injury law firm believes it’s imperative to practice safety at all times while out at sea.
Adequate rest
It’s vital to have enough rest before mariners work their shifts. Without proper rest, it can be difficult to work safely and effectively.
Training
Crew members should be properly trained and equipped to work aboard a vessel. If not, it can create a dangerous environment for all those on board.
Alleviate distractions
Workers should be completely focused when on duty. Distractions can lead to many dangers such as miscommunication.
Maintenance checks
Equipment should be checked for functionality and maintained to ensure safety.
Proper use of medication
Certain medications can cause drowsiness or a lack of concentration. To protect yourself and your crew members, it’s best to speak with a medical professional before taking any medications that might impact your ability to work.
Be cautious of weather conditions
Weather conditions can dramatically impact the safety of the entire crew. Knowing what safety procedures to follow in hazardous weather conditions can help keep everyone aboard safe.
Contact Our Team of Devoted Maritime Attorneys
The Law Offices of Blaine Barrilleaux serve the Lafayette community relentlessly by ensuring injury victims receive the justice they deserve. Suffering from a maritime accident can be stressful and challenging to handle without legal representation.
Time is sensitive in these types of cases, which is why you should contact a maritime injury law attorney immediately after the accident.
If you were injured while working at sea, don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation by calling our office at (337) 989-1212 or filling out our free case evaluation form.