Slip and Fall on a Vessel – Know Your Rights

While it might not be possible to prevent wet surfaces on a vessel, certain measures can be taken to reduce the risk of maritime fall accidents. Slip and falls are some of the most common, not to mention painful, accidents that occur on vessels. A simple slip of the foot and fall on the ground can lead to major, life-altering injuries.

We know firsthand the seriousness of maritime slip and falls.
Our maritime attorneys have represented many workers hurt from falls on vessels. A while back, we represented a maritime worker who slipped and fell while helping his co-workers stack cable lines. His employer initially provided maintenance and cure payments, but things quickly started to change after it appeared that our client sustained a serious spine injury. The man’s employer stopped paying his maintenance and cure benefits and requested that our client see company doctors. We were eventually able to help our client receive a substantial settlement. It was an unfortunate event that should never have happened, though.

This case is not isolated. We even represented one maritime worker who slipped and fell from a dock onto a deck. He broke his neck, which required neck fusion surgery. It was also believed that he suffered a closed head injury.

You need to understand your rights.
If you are a seaman, you have certain rights and protections under the Jones Act. This federal law allows seamen to recover compensation known as maintenance and cure. Injured offshore workers also have the right to pursue a lawsuit if negligence or an unseaworthy vessel caused the accident.

Maritime cases can be complex and overwhelming. If you were hurt offshore, you should talk with someone who has experience in maritime law. At the Law Offices of Vujasinovic & Beckcom, we have represented injured workers, just like you. We know what is going through your mind and the worries that are consuming you. Don’t hesitate to contact an experienced maritime lawyer from our office for legal advice. We will review your case and explain your legal options. You can reach us by calling 877.724.7800. 



Be sure to order a FREE copy of maritime attorney Brian Beckcom’s book, The Insider's Guide to Winning Your Maritime Injury Case.




If you have been injured in a maritime accident, we recommend that you do your research.  All too often, the company will try to trick you into signing away your legal rights, ask you to give a recorded statement that will hurt your case, force you to see company doctors, or steer you in the wrong direction.  Below is a list of resources we provide to injured maritime employees for FREE.

Free Book Written By Board Certified Injury Attorney Brian Beckcom



Helpful Internet Articles

Click on the links below to read these helpful articles on maritime injury cases.

Read The Jones Act

Calculating Jones Act Settlements

Financial Insecurity After A Maritime Injury

Am I Required To See A Company Doctor?

Should I Give My Employer A Recorded Statement?

Hiring The Best Attorney For Your Case

What To Expect In A Jones Act Injury Case