Whenever a carrier executes a contract for the transportation of goods for a shipper, a service contract must be filed with the Federal Maritime Commission. The following are the basics on service contracts and how to file them with SERVCON, the automated filing...
Maritime Law
Cruise ship negligence and the statute of limitations
Whether it’s for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, spending time on a cruise ship is supposed to be a way to escape your troubles. To relax, enjoy yourself and leave your cares behind you on land. Unfortunately, some people get exactly the opposite and suffer...
Most dangerous seafaring accidents
Working on a ship may be risky and dangerous. Ship crews face the risk of these common and potentially fatal accidents regardless of new laws and safety precautions. Man overboard situations Maritime law has many requirements that are intended to reduce risks and...
The basics on the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act
In general, when a worker in California is injured on-the-job, they are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, certain federal laws address on-the-job injuries in certain professions. One of these laws is the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation...
New law aims to change maritime liability, address 2019 disaster
A bill sponsored by California lawmakers Rep. Salud Carbajal and Sen. Dianne Feinstein would change a maritime liability law that many claim is outdated. The law would update the Limitation of Liability Act of 1851, which restricts the liability of boat owners to the...
As cruise industry ramps back up, a reminder to be careful
We have all heard the news that the cruise industry is ramping back up. All across the country, there are news reports of cruise lines announcing new voyages. But, with all of this good news (or bad news, depending on one’s thoughts on the cruise industry), it is...
What is the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act?
Longshoremen and harbor workers in California are exposed to constant risks and often work under extremely hazardous conditions. Even if the pay is good, workers risk injury from slips and falls, heavy lifting and loading, dangerous machinery or chemical exposure....
How might maritime law impact your legal claim?
With a coastline like we have in California, there are plenty of companies and employees who work offshore or in industries tied to water-based transportation and other businesses. When a legal issue arises in this context, unique laws may come into play. The Jones...
Appeals Court addresses Jones Act, saying worker cannot sue
Maritime workers in California and across the United States rely on the Jones Act to give them the right to file a claim against their employer if they are injured on the job. Still, there may be nuance as to whether a person who suffered an injury can file a claim....
When are vessel operators liable for crew negligence?
If you are a vessel operator, you are no stranger to tremendous responsibility. In addition to coordinating the logistics that keep your vessel running smoothly, such as planning the voyage of the ship and securing provisions, you also have to ensure the safety of...