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Port Accidents | Jones Act & Maritime Lawyer

Maritime Port Accidents

The shipping industry would be nothing without ports, and working in such a setting can be both exciting and lucrative. Unfortunately, though, they are among the most dangerous places to work in the maritime industry.

Because docks and piers are filled with heavy equipment, employees, and vehicles, they are all too often the backdrop to serious and even fatal accidents. While some are caused by unforeseen circumstances and acts of God, many accidents are due to negligent employers or colleagues. When negligence is indeed to blame, you may be entitled to compensation.

A Minefield for Workers

Maritime jobs come with inherent risk. Industry workers are exposed to a number of unforgiving hazards in their daily life. A lack of situational awareness or a momentary lapse in attention can spell disaster. Ports are full of the comings and goings of dangerous materials and heavy equipment, making it a minefield for employees.

Unfortunately, some of the most frequent port accidents involve vehicular collisions. A distracted truck driver may not spot an ongoing loading process occurring as a forklift attempts to place another load onboard. When a gap appears between the cargo and the tractor-trailer, the forklift can fall below the gap, causing serious damage to the equipment and the people operating it.

Common Types of Port Accidents

  • Container accidents
  • Fires and explosions
  • Crane and winch accidents
  • Electrocutions
  • Slips, trips, and falls
  • Collisions between vessels and ports
  • Structural collapse
  • Gangway accidents

These are just a few of the most common kinds of port accidents, but the possibilities are endless. Thankfully, injured port workers have the right to workers compensation when hurt on the job. Unfortunately, though, the payments do not always cover all of the damage done in an accident. In such cases, injured maritime workers should consider consulting with an attorney, especially when their accident was the result of someone else's negligence.

Jones Act & Maritime Attorney Richard Serpe

Maritime accidents are governed under a distinct set of laws, and not just any injury attorney can handle Jones Act and maritime cases. An experienced maritime lawyer can attempt to get the results, the settlement and the financial compensation you deserve.

Master of Laws in Maritime

Richard Serpe gained a Master’s Degree in maritime law from Tulane University School of law after graduating law school. He has also been awarded the rank of Proctor (the highest rank available) from the Maritime Law Association of the United States and has been practicing law for over 32 years.

Contact Us for Your Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has suffered a maritime defective or faulty equipment-related injury, you may need an experienced maritime attorney to protect your rights. We offer a no obligation, consultation to go over your situation. If you decide to work with us, we offer a no free promise; no legal fees unless we settle or win your case. Call or text 757-233-0009.