Commercial fishing remains one of the most perilous professions in the United States. Those who do this for a living have a fatality rate of over 40 times higher than the average worker.
While many injuries are survivable, they often lead to long-term consequences. Here are four commercial fishing injuries that could impact you for years or a lifetime.
Traumatic brain injuries
Falls on slippery decks, contact with swinging gear or being struck by heavy equipment can result in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even mild TBIs may cause persistent headaches, memory loss and cognitive impairment. Severe cases can cause permanent disability, affecting employment and earnings.
Injuries involving the spine
Heavy lifting, vessel instability and falls from elevated areas can cause spinal trauma. Herniated discs, fractured vertebrae or nerve damage often leads to long-term chronic pain, limited mobility or even paralysis. Spine injuries often require long-term rehabilitation and may prevent individuals from working in physically demanding roles.
Limb and digit loss
Amputations are a big risk for fishermen, often resulting from entanglement in winches or heavy gear, with fingers, hands, or limbs caught in machinery. These tragic injuries can lead to lasting physical limitations, phantom limb pain and emotional trauma. Recovery may involve prosthetics, retraining and long-term therapy.
Water immersion injuries
Falls overboard are responsible for nearly 30% of commercial fishing fatalities. Survivors often suffer from hypothermia, frostbite or long-term nerve damage due to cold water exposure. Even brief immersion can lead to lasting circulatory and sensory issues, especially in colder northeast regions like Alaska and even California’s northernmost waters.
For those affected, exploring maritime remedies with guidance from an experienced legal professional can be essential to securing long-term support and compensation.