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Commercial fishing industry has a fatality rate nearly 40 times higher than the national average. 878 commercial fishermen died from a traumatic injury while fishing in the U.S., averaging over 43 deaths per year.

Working in commercial fishing is not easy. Long hours, rough weather, and heavy equipment make it one of the riskiest jobs out there. Victims of fishing injuries may think about the potential lost wages and how to pay their bills.

That’s why it’s important to understand your legal rights. Special laws exist to protect injured fishermen, and you may be able to get compensation to cover your expenses. 

You should also consult a commercial fishing accident lawyer in your area to receive an explanation about your rights and options. 

Common Types of Injuries in Commercial Fishing

Commercial fishing is a fascinating but dangerous trade, with injury occurrences quite common. Sprains or fractures from slips or falls on slippery decks may be among them. 

If heavy machinery, such as winches or nets, is mishandled, crushing injuries may happen. At the same time, cutting and lacerating may come from either sharp instruments or fish spines.

Hypothermia and frostbite can occur due to long hours spent at sea in cold weather. Then again, repetitive activities can bear chronic complications: for example, carpal tunnel syndrome.

Identification of common hardware injuries that may be encountered in fishing is the best course of action. Be alert and prepared at all times to avoid the possibility of hazards and injuries.

Legal Framework Governing Fishing Injuries

If you sustain an injury while fishing, you should know about the laws that will help protect your rights.

Laws like the Jones Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act cover injuries that happen on the job while industrial fishing. These rules also provide protection to workers who sustain injuries at sea.

You need to find out whether you can claim workers’ compensation and whether you may demand a third party’s responsibility by filing a civil suit under tort law.

There may be other OSHA rules that apply. These legislations protect fishermen and help maintain workplace safety. Knowledge of these laws makes it easier for you to look into your choices for obtaining compensation.

Steps to Take Immediately After an Injury

Should an injury occur while fishing, immediate action is required to protect your health and legal rights.

Get medical treatment immediately, even if you consider the injuries to be minimal. Keep a record of everything with photos of the injuries and the scene. Get statements from witnesses.

Report the incident to your supervisor or captain promptly. Your report will produce official documentation about the incident. Keep track of every visit you make to hospitals or medical clinics along with the treatments you have received for the injury.

Don’t discuss what happened or admit anything, as such behavior might hamper your legal standing later. Seek a lawyer who specializes in fishing injuries to start discussions about your options and rights.

The steps you take can impact your recovery or future claims.

Handling Workers’ Compensation Claims

Filing workers’ compensation injury claims related to fishing can be quite challenging, but it is still important that you take action to receive the benefits you are entitled to. 

Report your injury to your employer immediately. They are the ones who should be notified about the injury as soon as possible. Collect all the necessary paperwork, records of treatment, and reports of the accident. 

Fill out the claim form accurately, including all relevant pieces of information and details. Keep copies of anything you submit.

After you file, keep in touch with your employer’s insurance company for information about the status of your claim. Should your claim be denied, think about appealing. Knowing when to act and asserting your rights will keep you on track toward being compensated.

Seeking Legal Representation and Support

Choosing the appropriate lawyer after a fishing injury will affect your recovery and lawsuit outcome. Veteran attorneys understand commercial fishermen’s marine and workers’ compensation injury challenges. Everything will be explained so you know your rights and options.

In searching for legal help, find someone who has proven themselves in similar cases. Set up consultations to discuss your situation and evaluate their approach. Ask them about their experience and success rates.

A strong case involves teamwork, so choose someone who communicates freely and prioritizes your requirements. Your lawyer will handle your compensation while you heal from your injury.