Those who plan a cruise vacation often want to let go and relax. They don't want to drive, worry about their meals or micromanage the family itinerary. A cruise means that someone else has responsibility for everything from food to transportation in most cases. It can...
Maritime Law
How much time do have to file a claim if you are hurt at sea?
Every job has its share of occupational hazards. And maritime jobs are no exception. If you are hurt while working at sea or on sea-going vessels, you may be entitled to financial restitution for the resulting injuries and other damages per the Jones Act. However,...
Committing crimes in international waters
Maritime crimes encompass a wide range of illicit activities at sea. Their impact extends far beyond the ocean's horizon. However, international waters present a unique legal challenge when it comes to criminal activities. Committing a crime on the high seas poses a...
Can loss of consortium claims protect an injured seaman’s spouse?
When your seafaring partner is injured, everything changes. It can shake the strong foundation of your marriage. It can also leave you with emotional, physical and financial challenges. This is where the loss of consortium steps in. It is a legal path that protects...
Is the cruise ship company responsible if I contract Legionnaires’ disease?
While the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the cruise ship industry for a few years, the sector appears ready for recovery. In its recent industry report, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) found that 85% of travelers who have previously gone on a...
The rules are different out at sea
Texas is one of the states located beside a body of water, the Gulf of Mexico. It is home to business operations that require their employees to be out at sea. Being out at sea can present complex and hazardous issues. Even though you live in Texas and your employer...
What is an unseaworthiness claim?
Many consider the maritime industry one of the most dangerous jobs due to the extreme working conditions brought about by the open sea. Unfortunately, aside from the dangers of the high seas, vessel crews are also at risk of injuries due to the ship or boat being...
Is a cruise ticket a waiver of your legal rights?
If you recently disembarked from a cruise ship with newly acquired injuries, you may wonder about your legal rights. Do you have the right to file a claim or lawsuit against the cruise line for your injuries? Unfortunately, there is a strong chance that you waived...
In a Jones Act negligence claim, what are “maintenance and cure”?
Perhaps you are a maritime worker and suffer from an injury you sustained while serving as a deckhand on a freighter. Under the provisions of the Jones Act, your employer failed to provide you with “maintenance and cure.” What does this mean and what should you do...
How does the LHWCA work?
The Longshore and Harbor Worker's Compensation Act provides protection for workers injured on the job in the maritime industry. It is like the workers' compensation program for the industry because traditional programs do not cover it. The U.S. Department of Labor...