Maritime Injuries

Commercial fishing is one of the most dangerous occupations there is. Serious injuries such as spinal cord damage, head injuries, deep lacerations/scarring, broken bones, and lost limbs can occur while working in this occupation. In the most tragic of accidents, fatalities occur.

Commercial fishermen who suffer injuries at sea are usually covered by the Jones Act, a maritime law to protect those that work in this industry. This includes those actively engaged in fishing, crabbing, processing below deck or at a plant on the water, and vessel operations.

Fishing Can Be Lucrative But is Dangerous

Commercial fishing can be financially lucrative but it is also very dangerous. At Bishop Legal, we represent seriously injured accident victims and help them pursue financial recovery for their losses. This includes lost wages for inability to work due to an accident. It also includes medical treatment, future damages, and pain and suffering.

In the tragic event of a death at sea, we represent the deceased’s estate in a wrongful death action against the negligent parties.
Commercial fishing accidents may involve:

• Sliding fishing lines
• Losing fingers, hands, and limbs due to dangerous machinery or other objects
• Being crushed by crabbing pots
• Being thrown overboard due to boat instability

Protect Your Rights

Commercial fishermen have special protection under the Jones Act. Being injured at sea is very different than most other on-the-job injuries, which are usually covered under state workers’ compensation laws.

Injured fishermen need to be aware of their rights, and seek full, just compensation for their damages. This is critical as the injuries sustained may last a lifetime and have a long term detrimental financial impact.