Injuries Resulting from Vessel Collisions

It is not uncommon for vessels to collide, whether in a river, lake or ocean. Vessel collisions can lead to serious injuries and sometimes death.

Within a few weeks span of time, two separate accidents involving vessel collisions occurred. One incident took place in the Mississippi Sound, approximately 2 ½ nautical miles southwest of Bayou Caddy. The incident involved a towing vessel, known as Velma C., and a sailing vessel, known as Sound Advice. At the time of the accident, the towing vessel was pushing three empty barges. Even though the vessel collision could have resulted in severe injuries, luckily no one was hurt.

Another vessel collision occurred in Tampa Bay when a fishing trawler and barge collided, which resulted in a fuel spill of approximately 1,000 gallons into the water. The 80-foot-long fishing boat, the Maranatha, and a 95-foot-long barge, the Coastal, hit each other just two miles northwest of Manbirtee Key near the Skyway. The vessel collision caused a 4 by 8 inch gash in the Maranatha’s fuel tank.

When vessels collide, it can result in objects shifting and in some situations, falling debris. Vessel collisions can cause an immense impact, which can lead to injuries among those onboard both vessels. Vessel collision injuries often include:

• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injury
• Head trauma
• Brain injury
• Rib fractures
• Severe lacerations
• Death

If you have been injured in a vessel collision, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries. There are various laws that protect vessel workers, including the Jones Act. The Jones Act protects the rights of injured seamen. When a vessel accident is caused by negligence or unseaworthiness, you have the right to recover damages for your injuries, which may include the following:

• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages, both past and present
• Medical expenses, both past and present
• Disfigurement
• Mental anguish

Sometimes injuries are permanent and can affect you for the rest of your life. As an injured seaman, you can obtain compensation that will help you during your recovery and for years to come. Maritime law is complex and there are deadlines as to when you can file a claim for vessel injuries. Contact our law firm today if you have been injured in a vessel collision. Our maritime lawyers are experienced in handling these types of cases. The initial legal consultation is free and confidential.