International Maritime Law Protects You While on Ocean-Going Vessels

People employed primarily in international waters, such as workers on boats, floating rigs, and platforms that are permanently moored out at sea, are protected by international maritime law that pertains to their well-being. While these legal rights and regulations are intended to protect seamen and other employees in the event that they are painfully or permanently injured, the traditions and precedents in these areas can be confusing.

If you or your loved one has sustained even a slight offshore injury, be sure to work with someone qualified to speak about these issues as you analyze your options for monetary compensation. The simple fact is that, while the employer or operator of the sea-going vessel is obligated to take care of an injured worker, the average personal injury lawyer may not be familiar with all of the appropriate rules and regulations.

These legal precedents stipulate that both employees and normal passengers report their injuries and bring a lawsuit within 3 years of the injury. While this may seem simple, it is possible that some injuries may not be obvious for quite some time. Subsequently, be sure to notify officials and receive legal counsel from a maritime injury attorney if you are involved in any accident at sea. Also, cruise ship passengers should maintain all of their paperwork, as many cruise companies list additional regulations affecting your ability to seek recompense on ticket stubs and customer contracts.

For the personal injury or negligence victim, the regulations related to admiralty law are complicated. But you can rest assured that you have rights, and may be due recompense for medical bills, quality of life, or more. However, it is important to seek out a competent firm that has a proven track record in winning similar cases. This legal specialty is complex and takes several factors into account, such as:

The origin of the vessel travelled on
Whether the victim is a full-time employee of the company
Whether the victim is a paid passenger of the vessel
Seaworthiness of the vessel
Negligence on the part of the ship owner or operator
International and local statues and regulations that regulate navigation and ship building codes
The appropriate jurisdiction
Relevant treaties between the countries involved

In most cases of obvious neglect and injury, victims of accidents on the sea may receive:

Maintenance – Money from the ship owner to provide a victim with full living expenses, including rent, utilities, travel, etc.
Cure –Funds to pay for all medical expenses, as long as they improve the victim’s overall ability to function.
Liens – A ship may be confiscated by law enforcement to cover the damages.

No matter what happened, if you work at sea, or if you took a cruise and were injured international waters, be sure to contact an expert attorney in marine law as soon as possible. Partner with an attorney or firm that has proven experience in these sorts of injuries. They will be able to help you determine and secure your legal rights.