The maritime industry exposes workers to unique hazards, including slippery decks, heavy machinery, extreme weather conditions and dangerous cargo handling procedures. Ferry boats, fishing vessels and cargo ships operating in the sea present serious injury risks to crew members and maritime workers.
When you suffer an injury while working in the maritime industry, understanding your rights and taking immediate action becomes critical for protecting your health and securing compensation.
Seek immediate medical attention and document everything
Get medical treatment for your injuries as soon as possible, whether from the ship’s medical officer or at the nearest port facility. Even seemingly minor injuries can worsen quickly in harsh maritime environments, and prompt medical documentation establishes the severity and cause of your condition.
Record the accident scene by taking clear photographs of the dangerous condition that led to your injury and any equipment involved. Get contact information from witnesses who saw the incident occur, as their testimony may prove crucial for your claim.
Report the injury to your employer promptly
Notify your supervisor, captain or designated safety officer about the accident immediately. Maritime employers are required to maintain injury logs and investigate workplace accidents under federal safety regulations.
Request a copy of the incident report and verify that it accurately describes what happened. If the initial report contains errors or omissions, insist on corrections or file a supplemental report with accurate details of your accident.
Preserve evidence and avoid recorded statements
Maintain all medical records, employment documents and communications related to your injury. Keep detailed records of medical treatments and time missed from work.
Be cautious about giving recorded statements to your employer’s insurance company without proper representation. These statements can be used to water down your claim or deny benefits later in the process.
Navigate maritime law requirements
Vessel owners have a duty to provide seaworthy vessels and safe working conditions for crew members. Proving unseaworthiness or negligence requires understanding maritime industry standards and federal safety regulations.
Owing to the complex nature of maritime cases, consider seeking experienced legal guidance to understand your rights under maritime law and pursue full compensation for your workplace injury.