Commercial Fishing Injury Lawyer

The commercial fishing industry contributes significantly to feeding our nation. Unfortunately, the industry does pose certain safety risks, and sometimes, commercial fishermen and crew members are harmed as a result. If you were injured on the job, you’re most likely seeking compensation to help you deal with medical bills, lost wages, and more. Contact a dedicated Snohomish County commercial fishing injury lawyer from Amy C Brown Law, PLLC, today so we can get started working on your case.

Maritime Injury Lawyer Helping Clients in the Commercial Fishing Industry

On-the-job injuries can be devastating, especially for commercial fishing industry members. If you’ve sustained such an injury, a skilled maritime injury lawyer can help you obtain the compensation you need to recuperate. Contact Amy C Brown Law, PLLC, today to learn how our legal team can assist you.

Employees in the Commercial Fishing Industry We Represent

Amy C Brown Law, PLLC proudly represents a wide range of workers in the commercial fishing industry who’ve been injured on the job, including the following:

• Deckhands: Integral crew members responsible for various tasks on board, from equipment handling to fish processing.
• Captains: Skippers who lead fishing operations and navigate vessels.
• Engineers: Specialists in charge of the mechanical aspects of the vessel, ensuring smooth operations.
• Fish Processors: Workers involved in sorting, cutting, and preparing the catch for sale.
• Cooks and Galley Staff: Responsible for meal preparation and maintaining the crew’s well-being.
• Observers and Monitors: Individuals who record catch data and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Maintenance Crew: Those tasked with the upkeep and repair of the vessel and its equipment.

Common Injuries Sustained in the Commercial Fishing Injury

Commercial fishermen and others in the industry can, unfortunately, sustain a wide range of injuries on the job. Just some of the most common are as follows:

• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Injuries due to slippery decks and uneven surfaces.
• Equipment Accidents: Harm caused by fishing gear, winches, and other machinery.
• Lifting and Carrying Injuries: Strains and sprains from handling heavy equipment and catches.
• Hypothermia and Frostbite: Exposure to cold weather and icy waters.
• Cuts and Lacerations: From handling knives, hooks, and other sharp tools.
• Head Injuries: Caused by falling objects or accidents on board.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries: Due to repetitive motions during fishing or processing tasks.

After an Injury

After sustaining an injury aboard a commercial vessel, you should take the following steps, if possible:

1. Report the Injury Immediately: Notify the captain or supervisor about the injury as soon as possible.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Ensure you receive proper medical care, either onboard or at the nearest facility.
3. Document the Incident: Record details of the accident and injury, including witness statements and photos.
4. Maintain Medical Records: Keep all medical reports, treatment details, and expense receipts.
5. Follow Medical Advice: Adhere strictly to the treatment plan prescribed by healthcare professionals.
6. Inform Your Employer: Officially report the injury to your employer in writing.
7. Contact a Commercial Fishing Injury Lawyer: Seek legal advice to understand your rights and compensation options.

Important Maritime Laws for Injured Workers

The Jones Act

One of the critical laws governing maritime injury claims is the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, commonly known as the Jones Act. This Act specifically protects “seamen” who are injured in the course of their employment. Under the Jones Act, you have the right to sue your employer for negligence that may have contributed to your injury. To qualify, you must spend a significant amount of your work time aboard a vessel in navigable waters.

The Doctrine of Unseaworthiness

Apart from the Jones Act, the general maritime law imposes a duty on vessel owners to ensure their ships are “seaworthy.” This means the vessel must be adequately equipped and maintained for its intended use. If your injury was caused by a vessel’s unseaworthy condition, you might have a claim under this doctrine.

Maintenance and Cure

Regardless of fault, maritime law entitles injured seamen to “maintenance and cure.” Maintenance covers daily living expenses while ashore and recovering, and cure refers to necessary medical expenses. These benefits continue until you reach maximum medical improvement.

The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)

If you’re not a “seaman” covered by the Jones Act, you might still find protection under the LHWCA. This federal law compensates dockworkers, harbor workers, and other maritime employees not classified as seamen who are injured on the job. The LHWCA covers medical care, rehabilitation services, and compensation for lost wages.

Contact a Commercial Fishing Injury Lawyer Today

The bottom line is that if you’ve sustained an injury as a member of the commercial fishing industry, you can depend on a seasoned maritime injury lawyer from Amy C Brown, PLLC, to fight for the compensation you need. Contact our law firm today to schedule your free initial consultation.