When a ship sinks, it’s clear to everyone that something has gone horribly wrong. A vessel sinking can cause serious injuries or cause the death of maritime workers. If you or a loved one were harmed in such an incident, you may be entitled to compensation. A Snohomish County commercial fishing injury lawyer from our firm may be able to help.

What Are Some Common Reasons For a Vessel Sinking?

There are many potential causes of a vessel sinking. Some common issues include:

  • Running aground
  • Collision with other vessels
  • Engine problems
  • Fire
  • Steering issues
  • Improperly loaded cargo
  • Ignored safety precautions
  • Defective ship parts
  • Poorly trained crew members

A vessel sinking can also be made more dangerous by a lack of preparation. If there are no emergency supplies, like fire extinguishers, rafts, or life jackets, to make use of, that can result in more injuries and fatalities.

Sometimes these tragic accidents are just that, accidents. However, sometimes a vessel sinking only happens due to negligence. In cases like that, the negligent parties must be held accountable.

How Can Vessel Sinking Victims or Families Claim Benefits?

In order to claim benefits, it is usually necessary to show that the vessel sinking occurred due to negligence or unseaworthiness. When you can show that, it is possible to submit a claim under the Jones Act and sue for benefits. Victims who were injured in such an accident can pursue compensation, as can family members of workers who perished in a vessel sinking incident.

What Kind of Damages Can Be Awarded in Vessel Sinking Cases?

It can depend on whether you are an injured crew member or a family member of someone who passed away in a vessel sinking accident. If you are a crew member, you should receive benefits for:

  • Lost wages
  • Medical expenses
  • Pain and suffering

You may also receive maintenance and cure benefits that can help with healthcare costs and living expenses. As for family members, they can receive compensation that helps make up for:

  • The loss of financial support
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of guidance
  • Pain and suffering

Should I Take the Insurance Company’s Offer?

An accident like this can have multiple victims and that can make an insurer more likely to make a lowball offer. If you are not sure whether a compensation offer is fair, you should consult with a lawyer. Even if the insurer tries to rush you, do not accept an inadequate offer just because you need money and want this ordeal to be over with.

Talk to a Maritime Injury Lawyer

So if you are ready to fight for compensation, then contact Amy C Brown Law, PLLC. We can evaluate your case and tell you more about your legal options, potential benefits, and how our attorneys can be of assistance.