Each year, the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics compiles statistics about work-related injuries and deaths in the United States. Using these statistics, one can get a picture of which Americans are doing the most dangerous work in the country. It probably comes with...
The statistics show that working at shipyards constructing, scrapping and fixing up ships and boats have a very hazardous job. Shipyard workers are often exposed to hazardous substances that can cause illnesses, including chemicals like asbestos or fuel. They also...
There is continuing debate on what constitutes “seaman’s status” when a worker who is injured while working for a maritime employer files a claim under the Jones Act. The conflict is showing in a recent U.S. Fifth Circuit appeals case, where two different panels of...
If you’re a seaman who has been injured while working on a vessel, then you may have suffered extensive harm. The physical limitations imposed upon you by your injuries can be overwhelming, and your pain and suffering might be challenging to cope with day in and day...
When you work on a ship, your job comes with inherent dangers. One of the most common ones is the possibility of a fire starting while at sea. Seamen easily can suffer burns while trying to put out an engine room fire or in an explosion caused by an oil leak. Or even...
Although you might be able to settle your case stemming from a maritime accident, there’s also a decent chance that you’ll have to fight in court for what you deserve. This means potentially taking your case to trial. Even if your case seems extraordinarily strong and...
The idea that injured seamen have a right to 'maintenance and cure' is considered an ancient doctrine. Many seafarers don't fully understand their rights under this provision. Distinct from the benefits that can be claimed under the Jones Act, seamen are entitled to...
If you are a worker on a commercial fishing boat, it is likely that you spend the majority of your time in your shift working on navigable waters. This means that if you become injured, you will not be covered by standard workers' compensation laws that are applicable...
There's a certain sense of freedom when you're on the water that you don't have behind the wheel of a car. Maybe that's why so many boaters tend to indulge in a few drinks when they're operating their boats -- even through boating under the influence (BUI) of drugs or...
Those who work in maritime employment are not covered by standard workers' compensation laws. This means that if they become injured on the job, they can not turn to standard workers' compensation laws to cover their financial damages, so they instead have to look for...