Ferry Boat at the DockThe ferry system offers an efficient and practical way to travel in and out of New York City. Every day, ferry boats bring thousands of commuters and visitors to the city from Staten Island, Long Island, New Jersey, and other ports of call, each one staffed by a highly-trained crew. When an accident occurs on one of these vessels, employees have a right to file for injury benefits just as they would in any other maritime injury claim.

Liable Parties in NYC Ferry Boat Accidents

While injury and income payments may be available to ferry crew members under the Jones Act or the Longshore Harbor Workers Compensation Act (LHWCA), maritime workers also have the right to file a lawsuit against the person who was at fault for the accident. Depending on the cause of the injury, many different parties could be found negligent for a ferry boat accident, including:

  • The commercial carrier. If an unsafe condition aboard the ship led to the injury, you may have an unseaworthiness claim against the shipowner or maritime employer. Common unseaworthy conditions include inadequate crew training, failure to enforce safety protocol, distracted or intoxicated shipmates, or allowing broken or outdated ships to remain in service.
  • New York City. The city government is responsible for creating and enforcing safety regulations on the waterways of New York. If the municipality failed in its duties, you may have a claim against the city itself.
  • The boat manufacturer. If the accident was caused by mechanical failure, electrical systems failure, defective components, or a defect in the design of the vessel itself, the manufacturer of the faulty product can be held liable for injury.
  • Another party. Many third parties can be liable for failing to spot or correct a defect, including maintenance companies, inspectors, and other contractors providing services to the vessel.

Our Maritime Injury Lawyers Will Fight For Your Full Compensation

If you or a loved one has been injured while performing maritime work, our injury attorneys can determine who may be liable for your accident—and we do not charge anything until we win your case. Call (800) 362-9329 today to speak with a maritime lawyer at Hofmann & Schweitzer or download your complimentary copy of Are You a Seaman Injured in a Maritime Accident? Know Your Rights today.

 

Paul T. Hofmann
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Focused on personal injury, with an emphasis on maritime, railroad and construction worker tort claims.
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