On Saturday, July 11, 2020, a U.S. Coast Guard aircrew from Coast Guard Sector North Bend medically evacuated a fisherman from the fishing vessel McKenzie Rose.  The situation developed in the early morning approximately 100 miles off the coast of Coos Bay, Oregon. The vessel’s captain reported that a 26-year-old mariner had sustained a head injury and required medical assistance.

A Coast Guard Dolphin helicopter aircrew hoisted the injured fisherman shortly after noon and transported him to shore for treatment.  His current condition is unknown.

The maritime industry is a very high-risk environment when it comes to head injuries. Especially considering the constant motion of the vessel, not to mention all the heavy machinery and equipment involved. These injuries can be life-altering for days, weeks, or even permanently.

With an office in Portland, Oregon, BOATLAW, LLP has represented fishermen for over forty years.  The firm’s admiralty lawyers have a unique understanding of the dangers faced by commercial fishermen.

Credit: https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/video-uscg-medevacs-injured-fisherman-off-coos-bay