Owners of boats, ships, and other sea vessels are responsible for ensuring that the vessel is seaworthy and safe for crewmembers. If the owner fails to take the necessary steps to examine the vessel and prepare it for use, a serious maritime accident could occur that causes personal injury to the crewmembers or even a fatal accident. Anyone who is injured because of an unseaworthy vessel can file a personal injury claim, a Jones Act claim, or both, in order to recover any and all damages.
The law generally defines “unseaworthy” as a vessel – or any part or equipment of a vessel – that is not fit for its intended purpose. This does not mean that the ship and its components must be the newest, safest on the market; it simply means that the ship and its equipment must be fit for its intended purpose and for the voyage ahead. If an accident occurs on a vessel that is directly related to unseaworthiness, injury victims are eligible to file for compensation.
Anyone who is injured on board an unseaworthy vessel can file a personal injury claim. Victims may also be eligible to file a claim under the Jones Act, however, if they are a crewmember who was injured on the job as a result of unseaworthiness. Some crewmembers may even be able to file two claims – one for personal injury and the other under the Jones Act. Speak with an Alaskan personal injury lawyer from Johnson & Associates, PC to learn more!
When you are injured, you want to do everything in your power to recover the compensation that you are owed. This means not settling for less than you should. An attorney can review your case to gain a better idea of how much compensation you deserve. This allows them to know what amount they should be seeking and to work diligently so that your settlement or verdict provides you with full damages.
Compensation can be sought for the following and more:
Our firm has 25 years of combined legal experience and can skillfully handle your claim. We prepare each case thoroughly by taking the time to get to know our clients, their accident, and the laws surrounding their case. We also go out of our way to travel and meet with you, no matter where you are in Alaska, rural or otherwise. Contact our firm as soon as possible to set up your free consultation and speak with an attorney who can maximize your compensation.