Kozur v. Atlantic Bounty LLC and Sea Harvest, Inc.
We are pleased to advise that the firm obtained nearly a $1 million verdict against Sea Harvest, Inc. for injuries a mate suffered on the F/V ATLANTIC BOUNTY, a scalloper operated under Atlantic Bounty, LLC’s banner. Mate Kozur slipped and fell on the working deck of the vessel. Liability was established by proof that the captain excessively ‘deck loaded’ the working areas of the vessel in the evenings before going to bed around midnight so he wouldn’t have his sleep disturbed by running dredge haulback gear. Testimony showed the deck would be covered by over a foot or more of scallops everywhere with no place to safely walk/work on deck. As the mate stepped across the centerline stopper to hook up the dump chain, he slipped and herniated two discs in his spine requiring surgery. The injury ended his career as a scalloper, and he currently works as a counselor to state inmates about to reenter society. The award was $972,400 plus prejudgment interest, which is to be added to the award, making the final verdict in excess of $1.1 million.