Barge Accident Lawyer

Barge accidents can be devastating, leading to severe injuries and complex legal challenges. In 2022 alone, there were 95 incidents involving barges and towing vessels, resulting in 101 injuries and 4 deaths. [1]

Read on to learn more about navigating these cases and the benefits of hiring a specialized barge accident lawyer.

Types of Accidents Our Barge Accident Lawyers Handle

Barge accidents can vary widely, and our barge accident lawyers are experienced in handling a range of incidents, including:

• Collisions: Collisions between barges and other vessels are common and often result in significant damages and injuries. These accidents can occur due to navigational errors, poor visibility, or failure to follow maritime regulations.
• Sinkings: Sinkings can occur due to severe weather, poor maintenance, or overloading, leading to loss of cargo and potential fatalities. These incidents often require extensive investigations to determine the exact cause and who is liable.
• Onboard Incidents: Onboard incidents, such as machinery accidents, fires, and explosions, pose serious risks to any barge worker. These accidents can result from defective equipment or inadequate safety measures.
• Falls Overboard: Falls overboard can result in drowning or severe injuries for barge crew members, especially in harsh weather conditions. Safety protocols and proper training are crucial in preventing these accidents.
• Cargo Mishaps: Improperly secured cargo can lead to accidents, causing injuries and significant property damage. Cargo mishaps can result from negligent loading practices or faulty equipment.

Common Causes of Barge Accidents

Barge accidents can result from various factors, with the leading causes being:

• Human Error: Human error, such as negligence or lack of proper training, is a primary cause of barge accidents. Mistakes in navigation, communication breakdowns, and failure to adhere to safety protocols are common examples.
• Equipment Malfunction: Defective equipment or machinery failure can lead to severe accidents, making regular maintenance and inspections crucial. Poorly maintained engines, steering systems, and safety equipment are significant risk factors.
• Adverse Weather Conditions: Severe weather conditions can make navigation challenging and increase the risk of collisions and sinking. Storms, high winds, and heavy fog can drastically reduce visibility and control, making it difficult for crew members to operate safely.
• Inadequate Maintenance: Failure to maintain the barge and its equipment properly can lead to accidents, endangering the crew and cargo. Regular inspections and adherence to maintenance schedules are essential to ensure safe operations.

Injuries Typically Sustained in Barge Accidents

Barge accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe:

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries can result from falls or being struck by objects. These injuries can lead to long-term cognitive impairments, emotional distress, and significant medical expenses.

Spinal Injuries

Spinal injuries, including fractures and paralysis, are common in severe accidents. These injuries can result in permanent disability, affecting the victim’s quality of life and earning capacity.

Fractures

Fractures can occur from falls or being struck by moving equipment or cargo. Depending on the severity, fractures may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Burns

Burns can result from onboard fires or chemical exposures. Burn injuries often require specialized medical care and can lead to long-term physical and emotional scars.

Drowning

Drowning is a significant risk in cases of falls overboard or sinking. Even non-fatal incidents can result in serious injuries, such as brain damage from lack of oxygen.

Compensation Options for Injured Barge Workers

An injured employee suffering from a maritime accident has legal rights under maritime law to seek financial compensation. Two primary laws protect these workers:

Jones Act

The Jones Act is a federal law allowing an injured employee, including seamen, to pursue compensation from their employers for negligence. A Jones Act lawyer can help navigate these claims, ensuring the injured seaman receives fair compensation for their injuries and lost wages.

Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)

The LHWCA provides compensation for longshoremen, harbor workers, and other non-seamen injured on navigable waters or adjoining areas. This federal law ensures injured workers receive medical care and compensation for lost wages.

Damages Our Barge Injury Lawyers Can Help You Recover

Barge injury attorneys can assist in recovering various types of damages resulting from barge injuries:

Economic Damages

Economic damages include medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. These damages compensate for the direct financial impact of the injuries, including medical bills and living expenses. 

For instance, medical bills and ongoing treatment costs can be substantial, and lost wages may affect the injured worker’s ability to support their family.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages compensate for the intangible losses suffered by injured workers. 

Pain and suffering damages recognize the physical pain and emotional anguish endured, while loss of enjoyment of life compensates for the inability to participate in previously enjoyed activities.

The Importance of Hiring a Barge Injury Attorney

Hiring a specialized barge accident lawyer offers numerous advantages. Our experienced maritime lawyers bring expertise in admiralty law, resources, and strategic advantages to ensure maximum compensation for your injuries. 

We understand the complexities of maritime law and are dedicated to protecting your rights.

Expertise and Resources

Our injury lawyers have in-depth knowledge of maritime law and are equipped with the resources to handle complex cases. We can conduct thorough investigations, collect crucial evidence, and build a strong case to support your claim.

Strategic Advantages

With years of experience handling maritime injury cases, we can strategically negotiate with insurance companies and effectively represent you in court.  Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for you, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your personal injury losses.

Determining Liability for Barge Accidents

Determining liability in barge accidents involves assessing negligence, employer responsibility, and third-party liability. 

Depending on the circumstances of the accident, different parties, including employers, equipment manufacturers, and other vessels, can be held liable.

• Employer Responsibility: Employers are responsible for providing a safe working environment. If an accident occurs due to inadequate training, poor maintenance, or safety violations, the employer may be held liable.
• Third-Party Liability: In some cases, third parties, such as equipment manufacturers or other vessels, may be responsible for the accident. For example, if defective equipment caused the accident, the manufacturer might be held liable.

What to Do After a Barge Accident

If you are involved in a barge accident, it is crucial to take immediate steps to protect your rights:

• Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and get medical care immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, getting a thorough medical examination is essential.
• Report the Accident: Notify your employer and document the incident. Accurate and timely reporting is critical for any future legal claims.
• Document the Scene: Take photos and collect evidence of the accident scene. This documentation can be vital in proving your case.
• Contact a Maritime Lawyer: Consult with a maritime lawyer to understand your legal options. An experienced barge accident attorney can guide you through the process of seeking compensation.

How Our Barge Accident Attorneys Can Help

Our barge accident attorneys offer comprehensive services, including case investigation, evidence collection, negotiation with insurance companies, and court representation. 

Our successful case studies and client testimonials demonstrate our commitment to achieving the best outcomes for our clients.

• Case Investigation: We conduct thorough investigations to uncover the facts and determine liability. This involves collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing accident reports.
• Evidence Collection: Gathering strong evidence is crucial for building a solid case. We collect medical records, expert testimonies, and other relevant documents to support your claim.
• Negotiation with Insurance Companies: We negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation. Our goal is to maximize your settlement and avoid lengthy court battles.
• Court Representation: If necessary, we represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to secure the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys have extensive trial experience and are prepared to advocate for your rights.

The Statute of Limitations for Barge Accident Claims

Maritime law imposes specific time limits for filing barge accident claims. Generally, the statute of limitations for maritime injury claims under the Jones Act is three years from the date of the accident.  It is essential to act promptly to preserve your right to compensation. Delaying your claim can result in losing your ability to collect damages.

The Cost of Hiring a Barge Injury Lawyer

Our law firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront costs. We only collect a fee if we recover compensation for you, ensuring that legal representation is accessible to all injured barge workers.

Contact an Experienced Barge Accident Attorney Today!

If you or a loved one has been injured in a barge accident, contact us today for a free consultation. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery. Contact us at (888) 424-5757 or online for a free consultation to talk about your legal options. 

Sources: [1] WorkBoat