Working on ships can be dangerous, and no one knows that better than victims of hand crush injuries. These injuries can take a long time to recover from, and some even leave behind lasting effects that make it harder for a victim to work and enjoy their lives. If you were hurt in an accident, you deserve benefits and compensation. A Snohomish County factory trawler injury lawyer from our firm can help you get them.
What Are Some Common Causes of Hand Crush Injuries?
Hand crush injuries can happen on all types of ships, but they are especially common on fishing boats and factory trawlers. Some conditions and equipment can make these vessels a bit more dangerous, so it’s important to try and avoid things like:
Caught fingers: Many types of machinery used on ships can catch someone’s fingers or hand and lead to these kinds of njuries. Everyone needs to be careful around conveyors, pulleys, and any kind of hydraulic equipment.
Slip and falls: Someone who falls might grab for something to hold onto. This is another way that fingers or hands can get stuck in machinery.
Rushing while handling catch: Catching and processing fish is often done quite quickly. It’s easy for someone to hurt themselves and get their hands crushed by boxes or machinery parts if they rush their jobs.
How Should Employers Protect Workers From Accidents?
Employers should be doing their best to protect everyone on the ship. They should be making sure that:
- All machinery is inspected regularly
- Machine maintenance is a top priority
- All workers are properly trained
- Everyone has access to the protective equipment that they need
- Workers get rest when needed
- A first aid protocol is in place so that there is an effective response to injuries
What Are Some Potential Consequences of Hand Crush Injuries?
Hand crush injuries can keep someone out of work for a long time. They could even result in amputations. A victim of this kind of accident could struggle for the rest of their lives and might not even be able to work in the same capacity again.
Do Workers Receive Benefits for Hand Crush Injuries?
Fault does not matter. Workers should receive maintenance and cure benefits after any accident that causes hand crush injuries. These help you pay for medical bills and living expenses while you cannot work.
If someone’s negligence caused your accident, then you may have additional recourse. You could be eligible to file a claim under the Jones Act. That would allow you to seek out more benefits, including compensation for lost wages and pain and suffering. If your employer or a coworker contributed to your injuries, we can help you hold them accountable.
Talk to Our Maritime Injury Attorneys
Do not leave any potential benefits on the table. Contact Amy C Brown Law, PLLC to learn more about what we have done for other clients with hand crush injuries. If we can help you secure compensation, we are ready to fight on your behalf.
