Massachusetts and New England are a seafaring region. For many years, locals and tourists alike have used the many ferries and whale watch boats in the New England area. The maritime attorneys at Latti Associates LLC, represent both crew members and passengers who suffered injuries on ferries and whale watches that operate between the mainland, the islands and the New England coast. We have handled claims against a number of ferry operators, including Woods Hole, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority, Boston Harbor Cruises, Hy Line Cruises and Maine State Ferries.
Injured Ferry Passengers
Ferries and whale watches operate in crowded waters and rough weather conditions, making the potential for accidents high. Our maritime trial lawyers have represented passengers who have been hurt in collisions on board due to human error on the part of both captains and crew members. We have also represented passengers injured while boarding or departing the craft, falling on slippery decks, stairs or ladders. Through investigation, we have successfully proven that owner and operator negligence has caused ferry accidents and injuries.
Ferry Crew and Maritime Workers
Between passenger traffic, adverse weather, and ferries with faulty equipment, ferry workers face a high risk of maritime injury. Fortunately, injured ferry workers are entitled to protection of the Jones Act and unseaworthiness under general maritime law. If you suffered an injury while working on a ferry, it is important to contact an experienced Jones Act lawyer to see what federal maritime laws might apply.
Dock Workers and Terminal Employees
Dock workers and terminal employees play a big role in the safe loading and unloading of ferries. These workers face hazards such as heavy machinery, moving vehicles, and hazardous materials, increasing the risk of workplace injuries. If you were injured while performing duties on docks or terminals, you may have protections under maritime law and should seek experienced legal counsel to understand your rights.
Common Causes of Ferry Accidents
Operator Negligence or Inattention
Many ferry accidents result from operator error, including inattentiveness, poor judgment, or failure to follow established safety procedures. Captains or crew who are distracted, fatigued, or improperly trained can cause collisions, groundings, or other dangerous incidents that put passengers and crew at risk.
Overcrowding or Poor Safety Protocols
Overcrowding on ferries can lead to hazardous conditions, such as blocked exits, difficulty moving safely onboard, and increased risk of falls or injuries. Additionally, inadequate safety protocols, including improper maintenance of safety equipment or failure to enforce passenger limits, contribute significantly to accidents and injuries.
Weather Conditions and Mechanical Failures
Ferries often operate in challenging weather, such as fog, high winds, or rough seas, which can impair navigation and increase the likelihood of accidents. Mechanical failures due to poor vessel maintenance or faulty equipment also frequently cause accidents.
Your Rights After a Ferry Boat Injury
If you have been injured on a ferry, you have important rights that protect your recovery and future. Whether you are a crew member or a passenger, federal maritime laws and state regulations provide ways to claim compensation for your injuries.
What Maritime Law Covers
Maritime law governs incidents that occur on navigable waters, including ferry operations around Massachusetts and New England. This includes protection for workers injured at sea, liability for ferry operators, and passenger claims arising from accidents. The law covers a range of injuries from unseaworthiness and negligence to personal injury and wrongful death claims related to ferry accidents.
When the Jones Act Applies to Crew Members
The Jones Act provides federal protections for ferry workers who are injured while performing their maritime duties. This allows crew members to seek compensation for injuries resulting from employer negligence and ensures benefits like medical care and lost wages. Knowing when and how the Jones Act applies is essential for injured crew members to secure their rightful claims.
Can Passengers File Personal Injury Claims?
Yes. Passengers injured on ferries may be able to file personal injury claims against ferry operators or other responsible parties. These claims often arise from negligence, unsafe conditions, or inadequate safety measures. An experienced maritime lawyer can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the claims process.
Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Victims of ferry accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the circumstances of their injury. These include claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Each case is unique, and an attorney can help determine the full range of damages available.
Medical Expenses and Future Care
Victims of ferry accidents can seek compensation for all medical treatment related to their injury, including ongoing and future care needs. This may cover hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and long-term care, ensuring that injured parties receive the support needed to recover.
Lost Wages or Future Earning Capacity
Injuries sustained in ferry accidents can prevent you from working or diminish your ability to earn income in the future. Compensation for lost wages and impaired earning capacity helps cover the financial impact of these disabilities, providing economic security while you focus on recovery.
Pain and Suffering, Mental Anguish
Pain and suffering, as well as mental anguish resulting from ferry accidents, are considered recoverable damages under maritime law. This includes physical pain, emotional distress, PTSD, and diminished quality of life.
Why Choose Latti Associates LLC for a Ferry Boat Case
60+ Years of Maritime Law Experience
With over six decades of experience in maritime law, our attorneys have a deep understanding of ferry accident cases including what factors may have caused your injuries. This extensive experience allows us to leverage our knowledge to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Record-Breaking Verdicts and Settlements
Our firm has a proven track record of securing significant verdicts and settlements in maritime and Jones Act cases. For instance, we secured $22.5 million for a maritime worker who suffered crushed legs while loading barges, highlighting our ability to obtain substantial compensation for severe injuries.
With over 60 years of experience, Latti Associates LLC has consistently won high-value settlements and verdicts that cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care. We are committed to achieving full and fair compensation for our clients, whether through trial or negotiated settlements, ensuring they receive the justice and financial recovery they deserve.
Compassionate, Results-Driven Legal Team
At Latti Associates LLC, we prioritize our clients’ well-being and tailor our legal strategies to meet individual needs. Our team combines compassion with a relentless focus on results, providing clear communication, supportive guidance, and dedicated representation throughout the legal process.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation Today
We offer a no-obligation consultation to evaluate your ferry injury case. Contact us today to discuss your situation. Our dedicated legal team is ready to listen and advise you on the best course of action to protect your rights.
No Fees Unless We Win
We believe that everyone deserves access to justice, which is why we work on a contingency fee basis. You owe nothing unless we recover compensation for your injuries. This ensures our commitment to your case and peace of mind as we pursue your claim.
Our maritime trial lawyers have obtained payment for medical bills, past and future pain and suffering, past and future lost wages, impairment of earning capacity and other costs related to ferry accidents.
The maritime and Jones Act attorneys at Latti Associates LLC have more than 60 years of experience with maritime law. Whether you are a ferry worker needing assistance obtaining maintenance and cure, fighting a Petition for Limitation of Liability, or a ferry or whale watch passenger who suffered serious injuries, we can help you. Contact our maritime trial lawyers today to tell us your story – we represent clients nationwide.