subject: Jones Act Attorney Straight Talk: Barge Accidents And Jones Act Seaman [print this page] Barges can be extremely dangerous and deadlyBarges can be extremely dangerous and deadly. Too often Jones Act Seaman are seriously injured in barge accidents. This article, by a Barge Accident Attorney, discusses barge injuries and Jones Act Seaman. If you or a family member is seriously injured in a barge accident, you should retain a seasoned Barge Accident Lawyer.
Why Barges Are Dangerous
Many barges are a flat-bottomed vessels. Barges are often used for sea, river and canal transport of heavy goods. Most barges are not self-propelled and need to be towed by tugboats or pushed by tow boats. Barges have a distinct lack of mobility. Many barge accidents are caused directly or indirectly due to barges lack of mobility.
Most barges are unable to alter their course quickly. A lack of mobility along with increased boater traffic can cause major barge accidents.
Many barge accidents are due to improper training and planing. Too often, companies cut corners on safety and seaman are seriously injured.
Line Injuries
Because most barges don't have their own power, lines are used to move and maneuver barges. Tow lines, tow bridles, spring lines, head lines, etc. can and do cause serious injuries and death. Crew members suffer severe leg injuries or amputation injuries due to lines coming across the deck. Sometimes, death can result from barge line mishaps. In addition, lines can break and the whip of the broken line can kill or seriously injure seaman.
Injuries Getting On and Off a Barge
Getting on and off a barge can be a serious injury hazard for seamen. Barges are primarily designed for going to sea and carry cargo, not people. Thus, many times seaman are injured trying to get on and off barges.
Injuries Caused by Mis-Communication
Oftentimes barge accidents are caused due to poor communication between the tow vessel and the barge.
Know Your Rights
When you have been injured working on a barge you have rights under the federal maritime law to recover compensation for your injuries. This includes Statues - such as the Jones Act and maritime case law. All types of barge workers are entitled to compensation for barge injuries - including captains, mates, engineers, deckhands, AB's and cooks. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, loss of wage earning capacity, pain, suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, medical bills and disability.
Disclaimer:
This article is not legal advice. We are simplistic in order to achieve clarity. When you are asking for money in a court case, your credibility is always at issue. Always tell the truth.
