In Louisiana, we’re no strangers to hard, dirty, dangerous work. Like commercial fishing.
Louisiana’s wild-caught seafood industry provides jobs for 26,403 people; generates income totaling $484 million; and sales of more than $1.3 billion. While Louisiana’s commercial fishing industry may be lucrative, it’s also dangerous.
In fact, the death rate of an on-the-job commercial fisherman is an astounding 29 times higher than the average of occupational-related deaths across the country.
While all maritime jobs are risky, commercial fishing positions are exceptionally so. It’s the most dangerous industry in the country. Workers face long hours, fatigue, rough seas, and big equipment that can cause catastrophic injuries or even death.
Commercial Fishing and Fish Processing
One of the most dangerous jobs in the commercial fishing industry is that of a fish processor.
Individuals who work on fish processing ships (or “fish processing factory trawlers”) work long hours in grueling and dangerous jobs. These ships go out to sea, fish, and process the catch onboard. Workers are required to clean and process the shellfish or fish—cutting, filleting, and making a fish meal—in tight spaces, often in rough waters or bad weather. They use large equipment that has a number of moving parts. The job is also time-sensitive. The work has to be done, it has to be done right, and it has to be done quickly.
It is not surprising, then, that many seamen suffer a number of injuries.
Rough sea conditions can cause cargo to shift. Wet decks lead to slips and falls on the deck or can send a man overboard. Bad weather can result in frostbite or hypothermia.
For those working with heavy equipment, the conditions of working on-board can lead to catastrophic injuries or even death.
Even without rough weather, a lack of training can lead to dangerous incidents. Cutting fish can cause abrasions and cuts. Working with fish can cause allergic reactions or skin irritations. Injuries can be caused by poorly-maintained or non-working equipment.
Accidents happen. But when they do, you do have legal rights. And we are here to protect those rights.
Advocating for You
If you have been injured on board a ship, or have lost a loved one in a maritime accident, contact us at Day Law Group. Our passion is helping people who have been wrongfully injured. We offer FREE consultations, and in most cases, we don’t get paid unless you win. We have offices in Baton Rouge, and we serve all of Southern Louisiana. Call (225) 465-1232 ToDay to schedule your free consultation or contact us here.