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.
Trust Our Lawyers
Our knowledgeable maritime injury attorneys fight for the rights of the seriously injured. Injured fishermen should not rely on their employer, insurance company, or others to help them. They need a maritime injury lawyer on their side who knows how to handle a complex, high damage cases and pursues all avenues of legal recovery.
Our experienced lawyers have a proven track record of results. We have achieved millions of dollars in recoveries for our clients. We do not back down when powerful interests deny claims. Our lawyers have successfully litigated cases all the way to the Washington State Supreme Court.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a maritime accident, please contact us. We offer free consultations and have received numerous referrals from highly satisfied former clients.
