Tirelessly Pursuing Compensation For People Hurt On The Water
At Tabak Mellusi & Shisha LLP, we provide results-oriented representation in all types of maritime injury cases. We tirelessly pursue compensation for people hurt on ship or shore, whether the accident occurred while working as a deckhand or a Merchant Marine officer or aboard a cruise ship.
Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in the unique laws that apply in these claims, which are significantly different from those that are used in land-based personal injury and workers’ compensation cases. For example, we pursue claims under the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act and the Death on the High Seas Act.
Our comprehensive admiralty and offshore injury practice handles cases involving injuries that occur on all types of vessels, including:
- Commercial fishing boat accidents
- Offshore injuries on blue water ships
- Injuries to workers on tugboats, barges and ferries
- Accidents involving all types of workers on cruise ships, from servers and entertainers to deckhands and officers
We also represent maritime workers in employment law matters such as wrongful termination, discrimination and wage disputes. In addition to helping injured workers, we represent passengers who have been injured on cruise ships and recreational boats.
Representation From Lawyers Who Understand Ships And The Sea
Our firm’s founding lawyers are licensed Merchant Marine officers with a practical understanding of shipboard operations, above and below decks. They have the experience, knowledge and technical skills needed to handle the most complex and challenging marine injury cases in New York City and nationwide.
We work tirelessly to help injured seamen obtain maximum maintenance and cure benefits and all other financial compensation they are entitled to receive. Our lawyers have won numerous seven-figure awards, and we want to win your case. Whether your case involves an injury at sea, in a port facility or at another location, you can depend on Tabak Mellusi & Shisha for skillful advocacy at all stages of the legal process.
No Recovery, No Attorney Fee
We accept maritime injury cases on contingency. You will owe an attorney fee only if you obtain compensation.
Maritime Accidents FAQs
Below, we have compiled questions and answers that can help deckhands, officers and crew on blue-water ships navigate the aftermath of a maritime accident.
What are the most common types of maritime injuries in New York and New Jersey?
Injuries at sea often involve the body’s most vulnerable areas, including:
- Hard falls on wet decks, broken bones from shifting equipment
- Back and shoulder injuries from lifting
- Head injuries from sudden vessel movements are common
- Cuts, crush injuries, burns and harm caused by unsafe machinery or poorly maintained gear
These injuries are taken seriously under maritime law because they frequently occur in harsh and unpredictable conditions.
Who can be held liable in a maritime accident?
Liability depends on what caused the incident. A shipowner may be responsible if the vessel was unsafe. An employer may be responsible if poor training, long hours or unsafe work rules played a part.
A third party, such as an equipment manufacturer, may be responsible if faulty gear contributed. Courts in New York and New Jersey look closely at the condition of the vessel and the actions of those in charge, since the law expects vessels to be reasonably safe for workers and passengers.
What steps should be taken immediately after a maritime accident occurs?
Get medical help right away, even if the hurt feels minor. Tell the captain or mate exactly what happened so it is logged in the ship’s record.
Report the injury to your supervisor without delay because the law requires it to protect your rights. Ask for proper care, which may mean getting you to shore if needed.
Take photos of the scene, the gear involved and your injuries, if possible. Note the names of anyone who saw it. Keep copies of medical reports and bills.
Acting fast matters because delays can complicate things later.
What legal rights do injured maritime workers have?
Most injured seamen have rights under the Jones Act, including the right to pursue compensation if an employer’s negligence played even a small part in the injury. They may also be entitled to maintenance and cure, which covers daily living costs and medical care until they reach maximum recovery.
These rights are protected under federal law. New York and New Jersey courts treat them with care due to the risks of working at sea.
Start With A Free Consultation
For a free consultation with an experienced maritime accident attorney, call us at 800-781-8419 or contact us by email.