Being a merchant seaman in the United States can be a very lucrative career. It is also very risky, it is very demanding and you may have long hours that you have to be away from your family. Some workers are gone for weeks or months at a time. It is not an easy...
Commercial Seamen
Common causes of falls in the maritime industry
Most people are exposed to some potential hazards in their workplace each day. However, seamen face a heightened threat of potentially deadly incidents simply because of the nature of the maritime industry. Falls are a particular source of injury among maritime...
Steps your employer must take to comply with the Jones Act
As a worker in the maritime industry, there's a strong likelihood that you're familiar with the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, more commonly known as the Jones Act. Most individuals in this industry readily associate the Jones Act with the federal government's...
The dangers of underwater welding
Underwater welding is a career that requires extensive training, specialized skills and a sense of adventure. It can be a lot more dangerous than most welding jobs, but underwater welders – particularly those who work offshore, are typically well-compensated for their...
Negligent boaters are a serious threat to professional divers
Professional divers are among the most satisfied professionals in the country. They generally report high levels of personal satisfaction and fulfillment from their jobs while also earning a pretty decent wage. In California, the average salary for professional divers...
What can you do if your employer didn’t adequately train your vessel’s staff?
On a ship, it’s always possible that accidents could happen. You’re exposed to the elements, heavy equipment, slick areas and other hazards that could open you up to the risk of injury. Your employer’s responsibility is to make sure that everyone working in the crew...
4 steps to take after a maritime injury
If you work in the maritime industry, you are fully aware that the work is dangerous. You realize that all it takes is a single mistake for you to end up in a serious accident. Unfortunately, it’s the mistakes you may make after your injury that could cost you...
What’s maintenance and cure for injured seamen?
The sea is a dangerous place. As such, injured seamen have compensation available to them that goes beyond the basics of traditional workers’ compensation benefits -- including the right to “maintenance and cure.” Understanding your rights to maintenance and cure can...
You may have a claim for injuries at sea due to negligence or unseaworthiness
If you are hurt while offshore working for an employer, it’s important that you’re able to pursue compensation. Through the Jones Act, you may be able to seek compensation for any negligence of your employer. You may also be able to seek compensation if the vessel you...
What is the Jones Act?
When you get injured at work on a normal job, you’re generally covered under workers’ compensation rules -- but that’s not true for seamen. Despite the dangers of their industry, maritime workers usually don’t qualify for workers’ compensation benefits after an...