New York Pilot Injury Lawyer Helping Injured Maritime Pilots Recover Compensation

Maritime pilots play a critical role in the safe navigation of large vessels through crowded harbors and treacherous waterways. But the job is risky. A single misstep, faulty ladder or rushed transfer can lead to life-altering injuries or even death. When safety protocols are ignored or equipment fails, pilots and their families are left to deal with the consequences.

At Tabak Mellusi & Shisha LLP, we understand the dangers maritime pilots face every day. Our firm has represented injured maritime workers for decades, including pilot injury cases involving serious falls, crushing incidents and fatal accidents. 

The Hidden Dangers Pilots Face On The Water

Maritime pilots are licensed professionals who board vessels to guide them through harbors, rivers and congested ports. They are essential to maritime safety. But the job comes with serious hazards. Pilot injury incidents often happen during vessel boarding or disembarkation, when even minor missteps can lead to catastrophic harm.

Here are some common risks maritime pilots face:

• Boarding ladder failures: Pilots often board moving vessels using rope or pilot ladders. If the ladder is worn, unsecured or set up improperly, it can collapse or detach mid-transfer.
• Transfer between vessels: Pilots must sometimes step between boats in rough seas or poor weather. A sudden swell or misalignment can cause falls between vessels or crush injuries.
• Lack of proper lighting or safety equipment: Poor visibility and missing safety gear increase the risk of slips, trips and head trauma during night operations or bad weather conditions.
• Untrained or inattentive crew: If the crew fails to follow safe procedures or communicates poorly, it creates additional dangers for the pilot during boarding and navigation.
• Mechanical failures: Equipment like winches, gangways or pilot chairs can malfunction, leading to falls or other physical trauma.

Each of these risks can result in serious maritime injuries or wrongful death. When negligence or unsafe conditions cause harm, pilots and their families deserve experienced legal representation.

Understanding The Laws That Protect Injured Pilots

Pilot injury cases fall under a unique set of federal laws. Tabak Mellusi & Shisha LLP, has deep experience handling these complex claims under maritime law. We regularly represent pilots in federal court and understand how to hold ship owners and operators accountable.

Here are the key laws involved:

• The Jones Act: This law allows seamen, including pilots, to sue their employers for negligence. It covers a wide range of injuries that occur during employment and provides compensation for lost income, medical care, and pain and suffering.
• General Maritime Law: Pilots injured due to an unseaworthy vessel may pursue claims under general maritime law. This includes situations where ladders, gangways, or equipment were defective or unsafe.
• Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA):When a pilot’s death occurs more than three nautical miles from shore, the family may be able to file a wrongful death action under DOHSA. This type of claim can seek compensation for the financial losses resulting from the death.
• State Wrongful Death Statutes: In some cases, state laws may also apply, especially if the accident occurs in port or within state waters.

Handling these overlapping laws requires skill and experience. Our firm knows how to apply them effectively and challenge efforts to limit liability.

A Proven Record Of Results In High-Stakes Pilot Injury Cases

Tabak Mellusi & Shisha LLP, has secured major recoveries for injured pilots and their families. We’ve handled numerous pilot injury claims involving severe trauma, career-ending disabilities and wrongful death. In fact, founding attorney Jacob Shisha served as a pilot commissioner for New York and understands both the legal and operational sides of pilot work.

The track record of our pilot injury lawyers includes several seven-figure verdicts and settlements in complex maritime injury cases. We’ve helped clients overcome legal obstacles like time limits, venue disputes and attempts to reduce compensation. 

How Is Fault Determined?

In pilot injury cases, proving fault often requires a detailed investigation. We examine maintenance records, vessel logs, crew statements and weather conditions to identify what went wrong. If a ladder was set up improperly or a crew member failed to follow safety protocols, the ship owner or employer may be liable. In other cases, design flaws or lack of training may play a role. Our attorneys work with maritime experts to build strong claims and counter any efforts to shift blame to the pilot.

How Long Do I Have To File A Personal Injury Claim In New York?

For most maritime injury claims, including pilot injuries, you have three years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. This time limit is strict, but there are exceptions for certain cases. If the injury involved toxic exposure or was not immediately apparent, the deadline may begin when the injury is discovered. It’s important to speak with a pilot injury lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Can I Still Get Compensation If I Was Partially At Fault For An Accident In New York?

Yes. Under maritime law, injured pilots can still recover damages even if they were partly at fault. This is known as comparative fault. The amount of compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of responsibility, but you won’t be barred from recovery. Skilled pilot injury attorneys can help ensure that fault is assessed fairly and that any blame-shifting by the defense is challenged.

Are You An Injured Maritime Pilot? Call Us For A Free Consultation.

Call us at 800-781-8419 or contact us by email for a free consultation with a pilot injury attorney who understands your rights under maritime law. Tabak Mellusi & Shisha LLP, represents clients throughout the United States and around the world from our office in New York City.