Ships can be home to all sorts of dangers, but some of the biggest hazards are fire and explosions. Due to the tight quarters on ships, fire can spread quickly and cause plenty of harm if people don’t act fast and there isn’t a plan to deal with it. If you were working on a ship and you suffered injuries due to fire or an explosion, then you may be owed compensation. A Snohomish County tug & barge lawyer from our firm can help you learn more about your options.
What Kinds of Injuries Can Be Caused By Fire and Explosions?
Fire and explosions can cause a variety of injuries, from minor burns to major injuries that could affect a maritime worker for the rest of their life. Common outcomes include:
- Severe burns
- Lung damage from smoke inhalation
- Impaired vision
- Crushing injuries
- Hearing damage
- Drowning
- PTSD
Which Workers Are at Risk of Getting Hurt By Fire and Explosions?
Workers on all sorts of ships can be injured by fire and explosions. This isn’t something that’s unique to cargo ships. If there are any fire hazards on board, proper precautions need to be taken. Employees need to be trained to avoid deadly accidents as best they can and address any sudden dangers. Owners of vessels need to make safety equipment like fire extinguishers, hoses, and smoke detectors available. There needs to be a plan for what to do in the event of fire or explosions. This is true whether you’re on a commercial fishing vessel, a cruise ship, or a ferry.
What Are Common Causes of Fires and Explosions on Ships?
The people in charge should be doing everything that they can to prevent fires and explosions. Many injuries are caused simply because ship owners and others responsible for keeping the ship safe did not do their due diligence. Common issues include:
- Poor maintenance
- Defective equipment
- Inadequate ventilation
- Ignoring safety rules and regulations
- Poor or nonexistent safety training
- Improper storage of equipment or cargo
When Can Workers Injured By Fire and Explosions Claim Benefits?
You can claim benefits for any injury you get on the job. You don’t have to show that negligence was a factor. You should receive “maintenance and cure” benefits to help you with living expenses and medical bills even if you cannot prove that your boss or employer was negligent.
If you do think that negligence played a role in your accident, then you may want to apply for additional benefits under The Jones Act. You can make a claim under the “doctrine of unseaworthiness” if you believe that your employer was not doing everything that they should have to keep your working environment safe. A lawyer can help you figure out if this is a viable option for you.
Contact Our Firm
So whether you believe negligence played a role in your workplace accident or now, you may be entitled to benefits. Contact Amy C Brown Law, PLLC and make sure that you’re not leaving any money on the table. We’ll help you pursue the compensation that you deserve.
