Working on a boat provides a unique and exhilarating experience. However, it also presents various safety hazards. According to the CDC, over 40 workers died in boating accidents in 2019. To help you stay safe while working, it is important for you to understand and implement safety measures. Stay vigilant at all times Staying vigilant is vital for avoiding accidents on a boat. Paying attention to your surroundings, the weather conditions and the behavior of the water will help you anticipate potential hazards. Use protective gear Always use the necessary protective gear when working. This mig ..read more

Operating in the maritime industry requires extensive attention to detail and a plethora of precautionary measures. Towage contracts, in particular, stand as crucial documents that outline the terms and conditions of a towage operation. They carry significant implications for boat captains, as they govern the rights, responsibilities and liabilities of all parties involved in a tow. Consider these important components of a towage contract that covers all the basics. Defining the scope of services A comprehensive towage contract should commence by clearly defining the scope of services. This in ..read more

The hurricane season presents unique challenges for offshore oil rig workers. High winds, heavy rainfall and tumultuous seas can make an already dangerous environment even more hazardous. Nevertheless, oil companies and their employees have put in place several measures to ensure the safety of offshore oil rig workers during these severe weather conditions. Operating in the open sea, offshore oil rigs are directly in the path of any approaching hurricane. However, through careful planning, rigorous training and stringent adherence to safety protocols, these floating giants of industry continue ..read more

While cruise vacations offer relaxation and enjoyment, accidents and injuries can still occur onboard. Knowing what to do in the event of an injury is crucial to protect your well-being and seek appropriate assistance. This article provides guidance on the essential steps to take when you sustain an injury while on a cruise, ensuring your safety and addressing any potential legal rights. Promptly report the incident Immediately report the injury to the cruise ship’s medical staff or crew. Provide them with a detailed account of how the injury occurred and any symptoms you are experiencing. The ..read more

Louisiana’s unique location makes it a prime spot for maritime activities, such as shipping and fishing. Anything having to do with activities on the waterways in and around Louisiana fall under the jurisdiction of maritime law. Many relevant issues come up when talking about maritime law. The most important of which have to do with workers on the waterways and their safety. What does maritime law cover? People who work on or around the water undertake risky conditions daily. Even on the nicest days, an injury can happen simply due to the slick surfaces of boats and docks. Maritime law helps p ..read more

The Jones Act serves to benefit the economy by prohibiting foreign vessels from engaging in coastwise trade with the United States. Another very important provision of the Jones Act is the allowance of maritime workers, who do not typically receive workers’ compensation benefits, to pursue compensation from their employers in the event of a work-related injury. Under some circumstances, such as during a natural disaster, an employer might receive a Jones Act waiver that allows foreign ships to aid in relief efforts. This raises the question of how this waiver will affect your injury benefits u ..read more

In most cases, laws exist at the state and federal levels. For example, both the state and federal governments have laws concerning murder. But there are some areas of law that exist only at the federal level. Maritime or admiralty laws are one example. These cover the rules over nautical matters. They concern everything from shipping rights to employee issues on ships or boats. The right to govern the waterways in the country all fall under federal maritime laws, which is a right derived from the U.S. Constitution. Article III The right for federal courts to handle maritime matters is in Arti ..read more

Local weather coverage often mentions La Niña, but many Louisianans may not know precisely what La Niña is or how it may affect them and their families. With the vast number of New Orleans jobs that center around the Gulf of Mexico, this weather occurrence warrants a little more attention. What is La Niña? La Niña is a weather pattern that originates in the Pacific Ocean. When La Niña occurs, strong winds push across the equatorial Pacific Ocean, spurring an upwelling of colder deep waters that lower surface ocean temperatures by a couple of degrees. While this slight temperature variation see ..read more

Maritime work requires physicality and vigilance. Considering the number of risks you face each day, following protocols is an imperative part of your safety. Knowing your rights can help you advocate for your needs. With ongoing support from your employer, you can achieve higher productivity without jeopardizing your safety. Receive training The best way to learn how to navigate the risks of your job is to receive training. Your employer should provide opportunities for you to learn about risks including how to mitigate hazards, how to report concerns and how to respond in an emergency situat ..read more

The maritime industry can be dangerous just like any other demanding job. But when you suffer an injury or something goes wrong, the rules may differ from other professions. The biggest difference is the maritime industry falls under federal jurisdiction. This impacts any claims for death or injury while working on a vessel. When a person dies while working on a boat, the Death on the High Seas Act would dictate the benefits the family may receive. Benefits The act originally only reimbursed expenses the family had due to the death. It did not actually pay benefits. But this changed with time ..read more