Maritime accidents are often associated with disasters aboard ships that are the result of adverse weather, rocky waters, and other dangerous conditions. The maritime industry covers a wide variety of occupations and job sites, such as ports and offshore oil rigs. Although careers in the maritime industry can be both lucrative and rewarding, seamen and other maritime workers are at risk of deadly and catastrophic injuries both at sea and on land. Below, we discuss five common maritime accidents and injuries.

#1: Dock and Pier Accidents

Docks and piers are essential to maritime work because it is where many of the important activities related to ships and other vessels take place. Docks and piers are busy with various activities, vehicles, vessels, and people constantly on the move. Seamen and port workers are often injured in job-related accidents on docks and piers, including crane and winch accidents, vehicular traffic accidents, electrocutions, fires, and explosions.

#2: Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents are common in the maritime industry. These accidents are caused by slippery, uneven, or cluttered ship decks. Slip and fall accidents can result in people falling overboard, as well as broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, and even death.

#3: Repetitive Motion Injuries

The various types of work that seamen perform on ships generally require repetitive physical tasks, which can lead to repetitive motion injuries. The hips, back, legs, neck, feet, and ankles are all highly susceptible to repetitive motion injuries.

#4: Toxic Chemical Exposure

Seamen and other maritime workers are commonly exposed to toxic chemicals and other harmful substances that can cause serious injuries, diseases, and even death. Hydrogen sulfide can build up in small and confined vessels if they aren’t properly ventilated. Ships built before the 1980s might contain asbestos fibers that can result in life-threatening diseases like asbestosis and mesothelioma. Seamen and longshore workers can also sustain respiratory damage if they come in contact with benzene, a chemical found in gasoline, diesel oil, and other petroleum products.

#5: Injuries Due to Unseaworthiness

Accidents are more likely to occur when a vessel is unseaworthy, which is why ships, boats, or other watercraft must be properly built and kept in good condition to ensure the safety of everyone aboard. Under admiralty law, the owner of a vessel is responsible for making sure that it is seaworthy and can be held liable for accident damages if it’s not. Common injuries caused by unseaworthy vessels include broken bones, burns, and drownings.

Speak to a Maritime Accident Lawyer Today About Your Case

Daspit Law Firm proudly represents clients who have suffered serious injuries in maritime accidents, and we are prepared to use our extensive knowledge of the law to build a strong legal strategy so you can pursue maximum compensation for your damages. Reach out to our law office today to review your situation with a seasoned lawyer.

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