SeaPort Manatee, owned and managed by northern Manatee County, is an incredibly important part of the United States’ maritime industry. It is the closest deepwater port to the Panama Canal, showing the importance it plays in the nation’s shipping industry. Over 11 million tons of cargo pass through the port each year, and it takes thousands of maritime workers to keep everything running smoothly. If you’ve been injured while working at SeaPort Manatee, our team of maritime cargo injury attorneys can advocate for you as you demand justice.
BoatLaw, LLP, has built a strong reputation throughout the nation in the maritime industry. We understand the complex laws and regulations that give this field structure and provide injured workers with recourse. In addition to advocating for injured vessel workers, we also provide guidance to passengers, shipyard employees, dock workers, and others affected by maritime injuries. Our team is led by attorneys Douglas Williams and Nick Neidzwski, who have built their careers representing injured maritime workers like you.
With offices throughout California, Oregon, and Washington, BoatLaw, LLP serves clients throughout the entire United States. Whether you work as a commercial diver half of the year, work year-round as a deckhand, work on a dinner boat in the summers, or play another role in this field, we can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us at 360-671-6711 to discuss your legal options now.
“I am very pleased that I chose the right law firm that will stand up for me with integrity and respect. My heartfelt appreciation to Nick Neidzwski, my lead lawyer, and Gordon Carey. Not only [for] their expertise and extensive knowledge, but they also have a client-focused philosophy.” – Jonathan C.
Dangers at SeaPort Manatee
It’s no secret that SeaPort Manatee plays a critical role in the maritime industry—both in Florida and in the United States as a whole. Currently, it’s the third-largest American port facility for Fresh Del Monte, as well as the leading forest product importer in the Southeast. Without safe and efficient protocols and staffing, key industries throughout the nation could grind to a halt. The port supports over 42,000 jobs and brings in $7.3 billion to the region every year.
However, that type of workload comes with dangers. Cargo loading is a massive part of the port’s success, and this is inherently dangerous work. Cargo workers are at risk of repetitive stress injuries to their shoulders, knees, hips, and backs. The risk is even higher when safe lifting protocols are not taught or enforced.
Workers must also consider the rapid growth of this port. Fast-growing ports demand larger workforces. Ensuring the safety of current maritime workers means that new hires must go through rigorous training and understand the importance of safety rules and regulations that protect everyone. Any gap or weakness in this process can lead to serious issues.
Types of Injuries
As we discussed, repetitive stress injuries are a significant issue for those who spend their days loading and unloading vessels at SeaPort Manatee. There are many other sources of preventable injuries here. Vessels at this port utilize mobile harbor cranes, and any misuse or mishandling of these cranes could put those in the area in danger of having cargo dropped on them, being run over, or experiencing crush injuries.
Sinking or capsizing vessels are an inherent risk in the maritime industry, and one we regularly help clients with. These accidents often leave victims with severe or even fatal injuries.
Maritime Law and Its Role in Injury Claims
Maritime law strives to protect those who are injured while working in this field. In general, injured workers are entitled to maintenance and cure; they receive it regardless of who caused the accident or if there was any negligence involved. Maintenance provides financial support to workers by paying for their basic and required living expenses. Cure pays for the medical care a maritime worker needs to reach maximum medical improvement.
However, there are other paths to compensation if negligence played a role in your injuries. The Jones Act allows injured workers to sue vessel owners or employers if their negligence caused the worker’s injuries. This provides the opportunity for far more compensation than you’d receive with just maintenance and cure. Similar compensation is available under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act for those in other positions.
The type and amount of evidence you need to provide depend on the type of injury you have and what law your injury falls under. Working with a SeaPort Manatee maritime lawyer makes this entire process much easier and less stressful.
Reach Out to BoatLaw, LLP Today
The maritime injury lawyers at BoatLaw, LLP, are here to help you with your maritime injury claim. Schedule a consultation right away by calling us at 360-671-6711 or connecting with our team online.
