Crab fishing is well known as one of the most dangerous professions in the United States. Many workers face serious injuries, and fatal accidents are more common in this industry, per capita, than they are in many others. Crab fishing is a relatively small industry, but the chances of a serious accident are high.
One reason for this danger is just the environment itself. Crab fishing naturally takes place in inclement weather, where workers are exposed to wind, plunging temperatures and freezing cold water. Complications like hypothermia are common. Even with the correct gear, it is just a harsh environment that can take a toll.
Physical injuries
Additionally, crab fishing involves manual labor and the use of many types of heavy equipment, which can lead to physical injuries. A fisherman who slips on a wet deck or is struck by a rolling crab pot could suffer broken bones, a spinal cord injury, a traumatic brain injury or another serious type of complication. In rough seas, there is always the chance of being swept overboard, which can lead to physical injuries, even if someone is recovered by the crew on the ship.
Furthermore, crab fishing happens at remote locations. If someone does suffer a serious injury, it could take hours before the ship is realistically able to get back to shore and transport them to a hospital. This makes all injuries more dangerous than they would be if suffered on the mainland, where a person could be taken to the hospital in mere minutes. Doing difficult physical labor at a remote location is inherently one of the most dangerous things that a worker can be asked to do.
Crab fishing can be a lucrative industry, but it is important for workers to understand the risks that they face and their rights to compensation after an injury.