If you’re a fisherman or work on a crew that operates out in the open water, then you’re putting your safety on the line for your employer every day. That’s a frightening prospect, and those who have already been injured in maritime accidents know the very real harm that can be caused to them and their families.
What kinds of maritime accidents are most common?
The dangers posed on these vessels can be extensive, too. Here are some of the most common ways that seamen are injured when working out on the water:
- Slip and fall accidents: Vessels can be cluttered, and decks can be slippery. This can result in a seaman slipping and falling, perhaps even going overboard. The injuries suffered from these kinds of accidents can be quite extensive.
- Repetitive motion injuries: A lot of individuals who work on ships end up conducting repetitive tasks. Without proper breaks and proper training, these individuals can end up suffering injuries to their neck, back, ankles, wrists, arms, and legs.
- Fishing accidents: Fishing can be a dangerous profession. A ship may capsize, or an individual may fall overboard. Accidents involving knives and rigging equipment can also result in serious harm.
- Burn injuries: There are a lot of ways that an individual can be burned while on a ship. A cook may be splashed by hot oil, and a mechanic in an engine room can be burned by hot equipment. The risk of electrocution exists for many of those who work with the ship’s components, too.
- Exposure to toxic substances: Given the tight confines of many ship compartments, a worker can easily become trapped and exposed to toxic fumes and other materials that may be harmful to his health.
- Equipment accidents: A lot of ships have heavy machinery that must be used to achieve the vessel’s goals. But this equipment can prove hazardous, especially when misused or mishandled. The results of one of these accidents can be traumatic for a victim.
These are just some common accidents that are seen onboard vessels. Some workers may also be exposed to overexertion injuries, amputations, and even acoustic trauma. Any one of these incidences can leave you with significant injuries that may knock you out of work, leave you with extensive financial losses, and result in worry over your future.
Recovering the damages that you need to recover
Fortunately, you might be able to recover compensation for your losses so that you can focus on reclaiming your health and getting back to work. This will probably require taking legal action, but if you’re successful in doing so then you may be able to recover compensation for damages such as:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Disfigurement
- Mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
This compensation significantly alleviates your burdens, which is why you should consider acting quickly after suffering your injuries.
Do you need help with your claim?
Pursing a claim under the Jones Act can be complicated given that there are certain aspects of your case that you’ll have to prove that you may not expect. But you don’t have to worry about all of the legal details of your claim. An attorney can help you deal with those portions of your case, which is just one reason why you might want to consider having a legal ally on your side.
An attorney who is well-versed in this area of the law can help guide you through the process so that you can make the fully informed decisions that are right for you while maximizing your potential to recover the compensation that you need. If that type of representation sounds good to you, then now is the time to think about reaching out to one of those legal advocates for assistance.