Our Maritime Injury Lawyers Will Help You Get the Compensation You Deserve After a Maritime Accident

Common Maritime Injuries and Illnesses

Seamen face a wide range of health risks due to the demanding and often hazardous nature of maritime work. Here are some of the most common injuries and illnesses that may require medical attention:

• Respiratory Issues: Due to the confined spaces and fluctuating weather conditions aboard vessels, seamen are prone to respiratory complaints such as the common cold, sore throat, cough, flu, and sinusitis. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can exacerbate symptoms and lead to more serious issues.
• Gastrointestinal Problems: The stresses of life at sea, coupled with limited access to fresh food, can lead to gastrointestinal distress, including heartburn, diarrhea, and indigestion. These issues are often aggravated by irregular meal schedules and the demanding physical nature of maritime work.
• Back Pain: The physical demands of working aboard a ship, including heavy lifting, long hours of standing, and awkward postures, often lead to chronic back pain. This condition is one of the most common complaints among maritime workers.
• Skin Conditions: The harsh maritime environment can cause skin rashes and other dermatological issues. Prolonged exposure to saltwater, sun, and wind can also contribute to conditions like eczema, sunburn, and fungal infections.
• Oral and Dental Issues: Limited access to dental care while at sea can result in neglected oral health problems. Common issues include cavities, gum disease, toothaches, and infections, which may escalate into more severe conditions if not promptly addressed.
• Burns: Burns are a significant risk for maritime workers, especially those working with machinery, in kitchens, or in areas where hot surfaces and liquids are prevalent. Burns can range from minor first-degree burns to severe second- and third-degree burns that may require extensive treatment and could cause permanent damage.
• Open Wounds: Cuts, lacerations, and abrasions are frequent on ships due to manual labor, sharp tools, machinery, and accidents involving ropes or cables. Open wounds pose a risk of infection and significant blood loss if not properly treated.
• Fractures: The unstable and often hazardous conditions aboard a vessel increase the risk of fractures. Slip-and-fall accidents, falls from heights, or equipment malfunctions can lead to broken bones, ranging from minor fractures requiring immobilization to more severe fractures that require surgical intervention.
• Sprains and Strains: Wet and slippery surfaces on ships are common causes of slips, trips, and falls. These accidents can result in sprains, strains, and injuries to the hands, wrists, knees, and feet, often leading to long-term pain and reduced mobility.
• Foreign Object Injuries: Seamen may sustain injuries from splinters, metal shavings, or other foreign objects that are present on ships. These injuries can range from minor irritations to more serious wounds that require medical treatment, especially if they lead to infections or other complications.

How does Maritime Law Affect You?

In the United States, two main pieces of legislation affect many of the maritime injury claims. These laws specifically address the rights of those who work on the water or in land jobs that are directly tied to offshore business. We represent clients in claims brought under both of the essential maritime injury laws:

Jones Act claims

The Jones Act covers those who live and work on water vessels. This can include ships, oil rigs and other vessels that are actually out at sea. Depending on the exact work you do, it could be complicated to determine whether you are considered a “seaman” under the legal definition and thus afforded protection under the Jones Act.

Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act claims

These claims involve those who work in the maritime industry but are not considered seamen working on a vessel at sea. In most cases, this can include those working on docks, repairing ships or doing related on-shore work with boats.

Our Maritime Injury Lawyers Will Fight For Your Full Compensation

You have rights, including the right to work with our New York maritime lawyers. We have the experience and knowledge to protect your rights and make sure you get the full compensation for your injuries. Let us help you through the process.

For information regarding your legal options after a maritime injury, you owe it to yourself to speak with the experienced maritime injury lawyers of Hofmann & Schweitzer. Our maritime injury lawyers are based in New York, but commonly represent clients across the country. Contact us online or call us directly at 800.362.9329 to schedule your free consultation today.

Schedule A Free Consultation