Maritime workers face unique challenges and risks every day. When safety protocols fail, injuries can have devastating impacts—both personally and professionally. This is why advocating for the rights of injured seamen is critical, and why Doyle Dennis Avery LLP is proud to be a trusted legal partner for maritime workers across the nation.
Our legal team recently secured a $398,135 federal court verdict for an injured seaman, Errick W., in a significant case involving Jones Act negligence and unseaworthiness claims. This victory highlights our commitment to protecting the rights of maritime workers and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
The Case Overview
This landmark case involved our client, Errick W., who was serving as a Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) aboard the vessel Cape Orlando . While performing routine work in the engine room, Errick slipped on an unprotected metal lip—an area that lacked the proper non-skid coating essential for safety in high-risk, high-traffic zones.
The unsafe condition caused him to suffer debilitating injuries, including chronic back damage, which ultimately ended his career as an offshore worker.
Settlement Breakdown
The November 2024 federal court ruling held the vessel owner accountable for failing to maintain seaworthy conditions. Errick was awarded substantial compensation to help rebuild his life, including:
● $200,000 for pain and suffering damages
● $145,771 for lost maritime wages
● $52,364 for future medical care
This case reinforces the importance of maintaining safety standards aboard vessels and demonstrates Doyle Dennis Avery LLP’s expertise in achieving justice for injured seamen.
This case is more than a financial victory—it’s a legal precedent that highlights critical points about maritime worker rights and liabilities under the Jones Act.
Key Legal Takeaways
1. Jones Act Negligence Claims
The Jones Act allows injured seamen to file negligence claims when their employer fails to provide a safe work environment. Our team proved that the unsafe conditions in the engine room directly violated safety standards, resulting in our client’s injury.
2. Unseaworthiness Doctrine
Under maritime law, vessel owners are obligated to ensure their vessels are seaworthy. This includes maintaining all equipment and surfaces to prevent unnecessary hazards for crew members. The absence of a non-skid coating on the engine room stairwell was a clear violation.
3. Vessel Owner Liability
This case underscores that vessel owners can and will be held accountable when failures in safety protocol jeopardize their crew’s well-being. Employers cannot expect workers to mitigate risks caused by negligent maintenance.
4. Offshore Injury Compensation
Errick’s $398,135 verdict ensures he has the financial support he needs after losing his ability to work offshore. It serves as a reminder that injured maritime workers should never have to bear the burden of their injuries alone.
Protecting Engine Room Safety Standards
This case brought much-needed attention to engine room safety—a high-risk area where workers handle oil, mechanical equipment, and hazardous materials. Proper safety features, such as non-skid surfaces, are not optional—they’re a legal requirement.
The Impact on Errick’s Life
After multiple attempts to return to offshore work, Errick’s injuries made continuing in the maritime industry impossible. However, with the financial support secured through this settlement, he was able to transition to a new career as a transit operator.
While no amount of money can undo the hardships he endured, this compensation provides stability and paves the way for a brighter future.
Maritime injuries can leave you feeling uncertain about your next steps. Knowing your rights under the Jones Act and seeking legal assistance immediately can make all the difference.
Actions You Should Take After an Injury
1. Report the Incident
Notify your employer and document the details surrounding your injury. Request a copy of the incident report for your records.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, have them evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper treatment and documentation.
3. Preserve Evidence
Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any unsafe conditions that contributed to the incident. Collect the contact information of any witnesses.
4. Consult a Maritime Injury Lawyer
Navigating maritime law can be complex. Working with experienced attorneys like Doyle Dennis Avery LLP ensures your rights are protected every step of the way. We’ll handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing.
No Win No Fee
Top Trial Lawyer
At Doyle Dennis Avery LLP, we understand the challenges faced by injured maritime workers.
This $398,135 verdict is just one example of how we fight tirelessly to secure justice and compensation for our clients.
Maritime Injury Claims We Handle
We focus exclusively on maritime and offshore injury cases, including:
● Jones Act claims
● Unseaworthiness cases
● Offshore accidents
● Vessel injuries
● Engine room accidents
● Slip and fall injuries
No matter where you are located, we proudly serve maritime workers nationwide.
Free Consultation for Injured Maritime Workers
If you or a loved one has been injured while working offshore or aboard a vessel, don’t wait. Contact Doyle Dennis Avery LLP today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call Now: 1-888-571-1001
Securing Your Rights, One Case at a Time
At Doyle Dennis Avery LLP, we believe in holding negligent parties accountable and fighting for maritime workers who’ve been injured due to unsafe conditions. This $398,135 verdict is a testament to our dedication and expertise in maritime law.
If you’ve been injured in a maritime setting, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Reach out to our team today and take the first step toward justice.
