When a maritime worker clocks in, they immediately need to be aware of every action they take. After all, the next decision they make could have catastrophic repercussions for themselves, the vessel, its cargo, and even their fellow crewmembers. When the vessel’s owner, their employer, or one of their coworkers makes a mistake that ends in their injury, the right Port Arthur maritime injury attorney can help them receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.
A story out of China serves to show how massive accidents can occur while maritime workers are just trying to do their jobs. On the morning of December 15th, a Chinese cargo vessel collided with a Greek container ship while the two were travelling through the Yangtze River. In this day and age, a collision might seem like a rare occurrence for commercial vessels, but China has had numerous this month alone. Fortunately, for everyone involved, rescue efforts were successful and everyone survived.
Had this occurred in America, injured crew members would have a case for compensation, unless they themselves caused it. The Jones Act of 1920 is a broad piece of legislation that guarantees crew members compensation when they’re injured due to someone else’s actions.
At the moment, we don’t know who’s to blame. However, when it’s announced, a Port Arthur maritime injury attorney would almost immediately know if their client was due recompense beyond reimbursement for hospital bills.
For example, if the vessels crashed because the captain of one wasn’t paying attention, this kind of negligence would be cause for a lawsuit. If the accident occurred because the ship wasn’t outfitted with the proper equipment, its owner would actually be held accountable.
Fortunately, American maritime workers have not only the Jones Act, but also the option of hiring a Port Arthur maritime injury attorney like the ones who work for Kirkendall Dwyer LLP.
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