Search and rescue crews resumed their search on December 11 for a missing worker that was involved in a barge accident on the Ohio River the day before. On December 10 around 4 a.m., the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office received a phone call that a worker on a barge owned by Hunter Sun and Gravel had fallen into the Ohio River. According to officials, the worker fell off the barge while he crossed between a dredger and towing vessel near the 954 mile.
Crews have been searching for the missing worker between miles 952 to 970 along the river. Rescue crews began their search the morning of December 10 and suspended their search that night, resuming rescue efforts the morning of December 11. Hunter Sand & Gravel is working alongside the U.S. Coast Guard and Mine Safety Health Administration to determine what caused the accident.
The investigation should focus on the method of crossing from the tug to barge. The boat owner and employer owe a duty to the crew to provide a safe means of ingress and egress to a vessel. Failure to do so can be both negligence and unseaworthiness. Tug and barge accidents can cause serious injuries that may leave crewmembers unable to work for extended periods. If you have been injured while working on board a tug or barge, you may be able to file a lawsuit under the Jones Act or general maritime law for unseaworthiness.
Find a Maritime Law and Jones Act Attorney
Our nationwide maritime trial lawyers have been helping workers at sea fight for compensation under the Jones Act and maritime law for over 50 years. We understand the toll significant injuries or death can cause to victims and their loved ones. If you have suffered an injury while working on a vessel at sea, contact our attorneys to speak with someone about your rights. We can help you file for compensation.
Latti Associates’s Little Extra: The statute of limitations on a typical Jones Act claim is three years.
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Source: http://www.kfvs12.com/story/24180996/barge-worker-missing-in-ohio-river