Working at sea is risky enough, but the danger heightens when employers do not adequately prepare their crews. Various reports show that human error is a major cause of maritime accidents, often due to a lack of training. If you were injured due to a co-worker’s mistake, you may be entitled to compensation.
Untrained crews lead to unnecessary risks
Safety while working in the maritime industry depends greatly on having the right protective gear and thorough training, things your employer should provide. Even one undertrained crew member can put everyone at risk. Without the right background or experience, a worker might not recognize potential dangers or make errors in judgment.
Inadequate training can result in situations where officers don’t know how to use safety management systems, workers are unfamiliar with certain machines or crew members unknowingly stand in dangerous spots. Unfortunately, these lapses may result in severe injuries or even death.
Who is liable for maritime injuries from insufficient training?
The medical expenses and damages from a maritime injury can be overwhelming. If you are injured while working, seek medical attention immediately, notify your employer and document everything you can.
Depending on where your injury occurred, you have several options for pursuing compensation:
- The Merchant Marine Act (Jones Act doctrine): If your accident happened on a vessel due to employer or shipowner negligence, you have the right to file a personal injury claim against them.
- The Longshoremen and Harbor Workers Compensation Act (LHWCA): If your accident occurred on a dock, you may be entitled to benefits covering medical care, travel expenses, lost wages and rehabilitation.
If these laws don’t apply, you might still receive compensation through state workers’ compensation benefits or by filing a personal injury lawsuit against your employer. Acting quickly and gathering strong evidence can improve your chances of securing what you deserve.
How an attorney can support you
Dealing with legal matters while recovering from an injury can be overwhelming. Moreover, you’ll want to avoid making any mistakes that may delay or hurt your claim. An experienced attorney will know how to navigate the complex legal issues often arising from maritime injury claims. With them by your side, you can make informed decisions and focus on your recovery.
