Maritime Law Blog

Waiting for a check? Maritime law protects a seaman’s wages.

Federal Maritime Law is very specific with regard to seamen’s wages and there are very strict penalties if a seaman is not paid earned wages in a timely manner. If you have been at sea and are having difficulty getting your earned wages after returning, contact The Young Firm. Our New Orleans maritime attorneys are experienced in all aspects of maritime law. Call us at 866-938-6113.

Will more hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico put seamen's lives at risk?

Experts are predicting an above-average hurricane system for the Gulf of Mexico in 2010.Offshore workers must work in all weather situations. If proper precautions are not taken, their lives are put at risk during tropical storms and hurricanes. If you or a loved one is put at risk and injured because of an unseaworthy vessel or offshore facility, you are protected by maritime law. Contact The Young Firm to learn more about your Jones Act rights. Call toll free at 1-866-938-6113.

Compensation in no-fault maritime accidents: Who pays?

Seamen have dangerous jobs, and even if all safety precautions are taken, sometimes accidents happen. Jones Act seamen are eligible for medical benefits and for maintenance and cure regardless of who was as fault for the injury. Some employers may tell you they do not have to pay for your injury because they are not at fault. This is not true. If you need help getting all the benefits that you are entitled to, call The Young Firm at 866-938-6113.

Coast Guard requires random drug testing of 50% of crewmen in 2010

The Coast Guard requires that maritime employers establish random drug testing programs for licensed crewmen. The Coast Guard recently issued its requirements for 2010, and in 2010, a minimum of 50% of workers must be tested. Maritime work is dangerous. When alcohol or drugs are involved, accidents can occur. If you’ve been injured offshore because a co-worker was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you have rights to compensation under maritime law. Call the New Orleans office of The Young Firm at 866-938-6113

“Deadliest Catch” fishing boat captain Phil Harris dies

The Discovery Channel has announced that fishing boat captain Phil Harris whose commercial fishing ventures were featured on the reality TV series “Deadliest Catch” has died. The maritime law attorneys at The Young Firm would like express our sorrow for this loss. Harris is only one of many fishermen who risk their lives every day. If you have lost a loved one at sea, you have rights. Contact the Young Firm at 866-938-6113 to learn more.