Shrimp Boat Accidents and Injuries in the Gulf of Mexico
Much of America’s shrimp supply comes from the Gulf of Mexico, and shrimping operations benefit the Texas economy.
Unfortunately, workers in the commercial fishing industry are at serious risk of injury.
According to a report issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, commercial fishers were 29 times more likely to be killed on the job than the average American worker between 2000 and 2015.
Shrimping Risks
Work in the shrimping industry is demanding, with extended hours and numerous hazards. When maritime employers hire inexperienced crew members, fail to train workers properly, and don’t repair or replace malfunctioning equipment, they’re responsible for any resulting employee injuries.
Common shrimping industry accidents include:
- Falling overboard
- Getting caught in shrimping nets or lines
- Exposure to toxic substances and electrical currents
- Being struck by falling objects
- Sinking, grounding, or capsizing of the vessel
- Slips and falls caused by slippery and uneven surfaces
- Entanglement in winches and cabling
- Accidents caused by winches and other heavy equipment
- Collisions with other vessels
- Falls from ladders
- Operating during hazardous conditions, such as a storm at sea
Shrimping Injuries
Working on a shrimp boat can lead to severe injuries, including:
- Sprains
- Dislocations
- Head injuries
- Serious cuts and broken bones
- Acute neck and back injuries
- Crushed and amputated limbs
Preventing Shrimp Boat Injuries
Shrimping industry employers have a legal obligation to prevent workplace injuries, and they may be held liable for their failure to do so. If you or a loved one was injured while working aboard a vessel, you might be entitled to receive maintenance and cure benefits under the Jones Act. This will provide compensation for housing costs and medical care while recovering from injuries sustained on the job.
These claims can be complex, but an experienced maritime injury attorney can help recover the damages you and your family deserves. To learn more, contact the law offices of Steve M. Lee, P.C., by clicking the Live Chat button on this page.