Maritime Slip-And-Fall Accident Attorneys Fighting For Injured Workers
Working at sea can be one of the most challenging jobs out there. Ships roll, steel walkways get slick with water or engine oil, and gear easily clutters running areas. Simply walking or running to your next task can lead to an injury.
At Tabak Mellusi & Shisha LLP, our attorneys understand these hazards because they lived them. Founding partners Ralph J. Mellusi and Jacob Shisha worked as licensed merchant-marine officers before entering maritime law. They can immediately recognize situations where shipowners and employers cut corners and ignored safety violations.
When you slip and fall on a vessel, land-based personal injury laws do not apply. Instead, your rights depend on specific federal laws, including the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA), and general maritime law. It’s crucial to be represented by lawyers who understand the realities of working at sea and have the legal knowledge to secure the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes Of Maritime Slip-And-Fall Accidents
Slip-and-fall accidents can happen when a vessel owner or employer neglects their duty to maintain safe working conditions and protect their crew. This neglect can look like:
- Wet and slippery decks: Allowing engine oil, fuel, water or grease to accumulate on walkways
- Inadequate lighting: Leaving companionways and cargo holds in darkness or dim light
- Neglected walkways: Ignoring rusted steel grating and broken gangway steps
- Damaged safety equipment: Failing to repair broken guardrails or rig safety lines along open decks
- Unsecured gear: Leaving loose tools and unmanaged lines across walking paths
- Unmitigated weather hazards: Neglecting to salt icy walkways or apply anti-skid coatings during heavy weather
- Worn deck coatings: Delaying deck painting, which can lead to smooth steel surfaces that offer work boots zero traction
Pinpointing the exact cause of your fall provides the critical evidence needed to hold the vessel owner legally responsible for your injuries and lost income.
Employer And Vessel Owner Responsibilities
Vessel owners and maritime employers must keep their ships reasonably safe for workers and passengers. Their obligations include:
- Duty to provide a safe working environment: Owners must keep their vessel seaworthy and fit for its intended use.
- Regular maintenance and inspection requirements: Employers must inspect decks regularly and fix dangerous conditions quickly.
- Adequate safety equipment provision: Ship operators must furnish proper protective gear and anti-slip boots.
- Warning of known hazards: Crews must warn people about temporary hazards such as fresh paint or grease spills.
When shipowners fail to protect their crew or passengers, they should not just walk away from the damage. Federal maritime law gives you the right to make them cover your medical bills, lost wages and recovery.
Talk To A Maritime Slip-And-Fall Accident Attorney Today
Recovering from an injury is difficult enough without battling an employer or cruise line for fair treatment. Our attorneys can provide the legal support you need to receive full medical coverage and lost pay under maritime law. Our lawyers also provide counsel to passengers injured on ferries, cruise ships or private craft. Reach out today to speak directly with our team. Call us at 800-781-8419 or send us an email to schedule a free consultation.