The True Definition of Blacklisting

What is the true definition of blacklisting?  The American Heritage Dictionary defines a blacklist as a “list of persons or organizations who have incurred disapproval or suspicion or are to be boycotted or otherwise penalized.”  This leads to the question - does blacklisting happen in the maritime industry? 

While there may not be an official list that is passed around, maritime workers do run the risk of being shunned in the industry for filing injury claims.  However, it is crucial to understand that it doesn’t happen to everyone.

Blacklisting is the number one fear of injured maritime workers when they consider filing a claim against their employer. This fear can keep them from collecting the compensation that they deserve.

There are a few things that all injured maritime workers need to understand. First, recognize who gets blacklisted. Maritime workers who file frivolous or illegitimate lawsuits and who file as many as 6 to 7 lawsuits may find themselves blacklisted. The worker gets the reputation of someone who is quick to sue. Companies may not want to take the risk of hiring such a person.

Second, understand that filing a single legitimate claim will probably not result in being blacklisted in the industry. You can read more in our article, The Maritime Worker Who Might Be Blacklisted.

For a free, confidential case evaluation, contact our office at (713) 224-7800 or (877) 724-7800.

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