Working in the maritime industry involves a number of risks, including the risk of falling. Falls in the maritime industry can be caused by a number of factors, such as:
- Tripping hazards
- Slippery conditions
- Unsafe stairways
- Poorly secured scaffolding
- Misuse of ladders
- Elevator or manlift malfunction
- Unguarded waterside edges
- Open hatches that are not marked or barricaded
- Improperly covered hatches
- Missing weather deck rails
- Temporary landing surfaces that are too small or too weak for the loads imposed on them
- Improperly maintained dockboards and ramps
- Unsecured ramps
- Improper rigging and trimming of gangways
- Failure to use nets and other fall protection equipment
- Walking over deck loads without a safe route
- Poorly designed or improperly maintained decks
- Platforms and skids that are too weak for the loads imposed on them, are not well-maintained, or that lack guard rails or safety nets
- Insufficient access to vessels and cargo spaces
Falls can result in broken bones, head trauma, sprains and strains, back and neck injuries, or even death. Maritime workers injured in falls often incur costly medical bills and may have to miss work for days, weeks or even months.
Fortunately, most injured maritime workers can seek compensation under the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, or other maritime laws. The type of maritime claim you can file will depend on the nature of work you perform and the specific circumstances of your workplace accident. A maritime attorney can review your case and determine what legal remedies are available to you.
Need help recovering for your fall-related injuries? Contact a Boston maritime attorney today to learn about your legal rights.
Latti Associates LLC – Boston maritime trial lawyers