Commercial fishing boats can be hazardous places to work, and one potential danger that many people forget about is lifting heavy objects. No matter how strong you think you are, you need to worry about unsafe lifting injuries. If you do get hurt, you need to know how to claim the benefits that you deserve. A maritime injury lawyer from our firm can help you with that.
Are Unsafe Lifting Injuries Common?
Unfortunately, unsafe lifting injuries are quite common. Workers on commercial fishing ships can end up with sprains, back injuries, or even hernias from lifting something in the wrong way or while in a dangerous situation. This can keep someone out of work for an extended period of time. Such injuries can even have long-term effects, following a victim around for life.
Unsafe lifting injuries can have a variety of causes. Some common problems include:
Dangerous working conditions: Workers on boats often have to worry about hazards like slippery surfaces, rough seas, and bad weather. Slipping or falling while trying to carry something heavy is nearly certain to cause an injury.
A lack of proper equipment: Seamen should have access to safety equipment that can help them lift heavy objects. Not having what they need can put them at risk.
Poor training: Employees that do not receive proper training can make mistakes that make injuries more likely.
How Can Unsafe Lifting Injuries Be Prevented?
It can be difficult to prevent all unsafe lifting injuries, but employers can take some steps to mitigate risk. Some good practices include:
- Properly training all workers
- Allowing rest periods and breaks
- Adhering to all safety regulations
- Offering safety equipment to all employees
Sometimes an employer can do everything right and people still get hurt though.
When Can I Receive Benefits For Being Injured?
Seamen who get injured on the job and report it to their employers can receive maintenance and cure benefits. The maintenance benefits are meant to pay for your living expenses while you recover from your injuries. The cure benefits help with medical expenses. These benefits last until you are better or until medical professionals have done as much as they possibly can to make you better. Fault does not matter here. You are entitled to these benefits even if you did something wrong or unsafe.
Can Seamen Sue Employers Over Unsafe Lifting Injuries?
Yes, but only in situations where the employer has done something dangerous. You may be able to submit a claim under the Jones Act or claim the the vessel was “unseaworthy.” A lawyer from our firm can help you figure out the best way to claim compensation.
Talk to a Maritime Injury Lawyer
So if you’re ready to pursue the benefits that you deserve, contact Amy C Brown Law, PLLC. We can schedule your consultation and take the time to learn more about your situation. If we think that you have legal options, we’ll help you explore them and fight for compensation.
