Losing a loved one due to a maritime wrongful death may be difficult to accept. As the victim’s family mourns, they may pursue justice through the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA). This federal law allows a victim’s family member to hold a vessel or person...
Workers on heavy-duty tugboat vessels face significant hazards on each shift. Mitigating those hazards is critical to avoiding catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Understanding the common hazards that these workers may face gives the hardworking men and women on...
Seamen endure much in their line of work. From working on fishing vessels in rough seas and maintaining cargo ship decks to operating tugboats in busy harbors, they face significant risks every day. Exposure to harsh weather conditions, hazardous materials and...
When you step onto a vessel as a commercial seaman, you expect it to be a safe place to work. However, not every ship meets the necessary safety standards, and you may find yourself in dangerous conditions that the law considers "unseaworthy." The concept of...
Working as a seafarer has its share of risks and hazards. During the storm season in California, the weather drastically changes, involving heavy rain, strong wind, high surf, thunderstorms and flooding. While working in an unpredictable setting like the seas, your...
Seamen operate in a unique and challenging environment where their safety can easily be compromised. The maritime industry presents various risks and hazards, making it crucial for seamen to have mechanisms in place to address safety concerns promptly. One such...
Workers in offshore jobs may face occupational hazards regularly. Some industries can have heightened risks, including those who work in oil and gas. Operations of these organizations often involve heavy machinery, equipment and other dangerous conditions. These...
Discussions about California's navigable waterways too often focus almost exclusively on the Pacific Ocean. Thousands of ships arrive at ports in California every day transporting both goods and passengers. However, the navigable waterways of California can reach...
Navigating maritime employment involves understanding the legal frameworks that protect seamen and harbor workers. Among these, the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA) stands out as a crucial piece of legislation. The LHWCA, enacted in 1927,...
If you are a maritime worker, you may be entitled to several benefits if you’re injured in a workplace accident. The primary benefits to which you are likely entitled are maintenance, cure and unearned wages. Maintenance One of the benefits of working at sea is that...
