Man overboard accidents on maritime vessels are scary and all too common. These events are the second leading contributing factor to fatalities among commercial fishermen in the United States, with fatal falls overboard most frequently occurring in Alaska salmon, East Coast lobster, and Gulf of Mexico shrimp fisheries, according to data from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

What Is Most Likely to Cause Someone to Fall Overboard?

A man overboard event refers to a situation where a crew member falls or is thrown overboard from a maritime vessel. The term “man overboard” is commonly used regardless of the gender of the individual involved. These events can occur for various reasons, such as slipping on a wet deck, being knocked overboard by an object, or due to intentional or accidental actions by another crew member. Man overboard events pose a significant risk to the safety of the person who falls overboard, as well as to other crew members who may be involved in the rescue effort.

Liability for such events can be complex and may involve multiple parties. The vessel operator and crew members have a duty to maintain a safe working environment and take appropriate measures to prevent man overboard incidents. Failure to do so can result in legal liability for injuries or fatalities that occur as a result of such accidents. The vessel owner may also be held liable if it is found that they failed to provide adequate safety equipment or maintenance. Additionally, third parties such as manufacturers of defective equipment or objects that caused the fall overboard may also be held liable.

Did You or a Loved One Experience a Man Overboard Accident on a Maritime Vessel?

Liability for man overboard accidents is typically determined based on a case-by-case basis, and legal action may be necessary to obtain compensation for injuries or losses suffered as a result of such incidents. If you or a loved one was involved in a man overboard accident, contact the experienced maritime lawyers at Schechter, Shaffer and Harris, L.L.P. for a complimentary, confidential review of your case. Know your rights and understand how compensation works under the Jones Act with the help of maritime law experts.

Sources

1. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/fishing/fallsoverboard.html