Many people in New York may be aware that there are laws governing maritime passage and commerce in U.S. waterways. One of these is called the Jones Act or the Merchant Marine Act of 1920. At nearly a century old, this law today has its share of both supporters and...
Year: 2018
Fatal fall into St. Lawrence Seaway still under investigation
An accident that resulted in the death of a 57-year-old Canadian man early Tuesday morning when he fell from a dock into the Saint Lawrence Seaway while trying to tie off the Canadian bulk carrier upon which he worked is currently under investigation by New...
It is difficult to understand being lost at sea
According to the Insurance Information Institute, more than 1,500 people died in a marine accident in 2017. Historically, this is a low number, and for maritime employees, deaths aboard freighters and other ships total less than 100. Instead, most deaths occurred on...
Maintenance and cure benefits for repetitive stress injuries
Like any job in Manhattan, your work in the maritime industry requires you to do several repetitive tasks. The stress that such tasks place on your body can result in injuries over time. Such injuries may require treatment in order for you to perform daily tasks (much...
Light failure leads to late-night boating accident
A typical recreational boating excursion is usually spent with family and friends. Those who choose to go out on an acquaintance's boat likely do so trusting that the boat owner has ensured that the craft is safe, and that said owner will also do everything necessary...
What you need to know abut the Jones Act
New York is one of this country’s major ports and as such, numerous New Yorkers work in the shipping industry in some capacity. If they contract an illness or suffer an injury during their employment, the Jones Act provides the method for them to recover their...
The dangers to ships from animal vessel strikes
Ships of all shapes and sizes have the potential to encounter marine life. Everything from small fish to whales collide with moving watercraft.These collisions can have a devastating impact on both animals and people onboard. People have been thrown overboard, injured...
Does an occupational disease qualify for benefits from the LHWCA?
As a longshoreman or harbor worker, you work long hours in less-than-ideal conditions. Yet, you love working with your hands and being outside on the water. You are not the type of person who could sit behind a desk all day. You enjoy your job, but there is no denying...
What can I do if my boat is taking on water?
Even the most responsible and knowledgeable boaters may run into trouble from time to time. One serious occurrence involves your vessel taking on water, which can lead to significant injury or even loss of life if you’re not fully prepared. In this case, Boating...
Preventing maritime injuries with risk awareness
For many maritime workers in New York, working in such close proximity to water provides many opportunities that may not be enjoyed in other industries. However, with their job comes a unique set of risks that can be incredibly dangerous at times. Whether or not these...