Charleston Deep Sea Fishing Accident Lawyer
Thousands of people take advantage of Charleston’s access to the sea to charter deep sea fishing vessels. In addition, hundreds of fishermen rely on these ships to make a living.
While deep sea fishing can be an extremely enjoyable pastime as well as a lucrative career, however, deep sea fishing can be extremely dangerous and a demanding occupation.
A deep sea fishing accident lawyer is prepared to represent not only those private individuals who may have suffered an injury on a deep sea fishing vessel but also fishing vessel workers who have suffered an injury while at work.
Dangers and Risks of Deep Sea Fishing
Working on a deep-sea fishing vessel or even enjoying a chartered deep-sea fishing tour can mean working in dangerous conditions. Unfortunately, there are numerous ways a worker or individual can be injured while aboard a deep-sea fishing vessel, and some of the leading causes of deep sea fishing accidents include:
- Falling overboard – passengers and workers can be at risk for falling overboard, particularly when a boat is in choppy and unsteady waters in poor weather conditions.
- Vessel disasters – another leading cause of deep sea fishing accidents are those caused by large waves, unseaworthy vessels, and other severe weather conditions.
- Deck accidents – another major cause of deep sea fishing accidents include deck accidents such as slip and falls and accidents involving heavy machinery aboard fishing vessels.
- Inadequate staffing – when a deep sea fishing vessel is not properly staffed it can cause other workers to have to compensate and perform numerous demanding tasks aboard a boat.
Unfortunately, this can lead to accidents and injuries, as workers are expected to work long hours in difficult environments.
Jones Act and Deep Sea Fishing Boat Accidents
The Jones Act is a federally enacted law that offers protections for those who have been injured in many deep sea fishing accidents, including commercial fisherman.
Boat owners generally have a duty an obligation to maintain a ship that is safe and considered seaworthy. This means that a deep sea fishing vessel needs to be fit for its intended purpose as well as properly staffed.
Under the Jones Act, an employee on a deep-sea fishing vessel needs to prove that their injury was caused by some form of negligence from the boat’s owner. Also, an injured fisherman aboard a deep-sea fishing vessel can recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Maintenance and cure
- Reduced work capacity
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
Those injured in a deep sea fishing boat accident may find themselves uncertain how they will meet their financial and personal obligations, and that is why the dedicated and experienced Charleston deep sea fishing accident attorneys are committed to helping those injured secure the maximum amount of compensation for an injury.
Contact a Charleston Deep Sea Fishing Accident Lawyer
Cases involving accidents and injuries aboard a deep sea fishing vessel can be complex particularly where there are questions about jurisdiction and whether to file under state personal injury laws or maritime laws.
At Howell and Christmas, LLC., a deep sea fishing accident lawyer is prepared to help workers and their families secure maximum compensation for their injuries, as well as are prepared to help deep sea fishing boat passengers recover for their injuries. Contact one of our attorneys today for a free consultation.