In Alaska, those in the maritime industry are aware of the dangers they face as they go about their duties. While there are many ways in which accidents can occur causing injuries and fatalities, one of the most obvious potential dangers is if the boat capsizes.
While there is a protocol that crew members must follow when there is a capsize, it does not necessarily mean that people will escape unscathed. Those who were negatively impacted should consider their options to ensure they are protected personally, physically and financially.
Recent capsize incidents highlight the dangers
In June and July, three boats capsized and the crews needed to be rescued. The first, in Sitka, involved a 50-foot fishing vessel. There were four crew members aboard and they needed to use a life raft to escape. One was suffering from hypothermia. Three of the four crew members put on survival suits before abandoning ship.
In the second, a boat in Anita Bay was taking on water. A second boat – another fishing vessel – called for assistance. The boat began to roll in the water. The four people onboard escaped the boat. It later sank. The entire episode took about two minutes showing how quickly people can be at risk in this type of incident.
The third was in Metlakatla. The boat was sitting low in the water. The crew needed to use the skiff, but its line caught the stern and a bystander used his own skiff to rescue the crew. The boat subsequently sank and dragged their skiff with it, making it fortunate that the other boat was nearby.
When people think about fishing boat injuries, they do not immediately focus on the most obvious risk of the boat sinking. However, as these incidents show, it happens quite often and puts crew members in significant danger.
As stated earlier, one crew member suffered from hypothermia. There is a litany of things that can go wrong when a boat capsizes and a substantial chance of major injuries and death. It is vital to know what can be done to help those who were harmed.
A full investigation is necessary after a boat capsizes
It is imperative that people who were involved in the capsize know their rights. A full investigation needs to be done to see if there was a problem with the boat, how it was manufactured, if repairs had been made, if it was properly maintained or if mistakes were made by the company or captain. Pursuing compensation for all that was lost may require qualified help that knows the ins and outs of maritime claims.