How Effective is the Death on the High Seas Act for Seamen?

After the BP disaster in 2010, British Petroleum promised to pay the families of the workers killed in the Deepwater Horizon explosion for "all legitimate claims." Unfortunately, while they did pay, the damages were not always fair. One family received only $1,000 compensation for the death of a rig worker under the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA).

Because the Deepwater Horizon disaster was over three miles offshore, it qualifies under DOHSA. This 1920 legislation was designed to provide damages for the families of workers killed while employed over three miles off US coasts.

DOHSA was originally considered a great boon to seamen's widows, who were receiving nothing before it was enacted. However, over the years the protection has become outdated. Today it can be said that families of seamen killed on shore are eligible for more compensation than those killed at sea.

In June 2010, members of Congress listened to BP widows testify. After hearing the widows speak, Congress pledged to update the law. But the cruise ship industry is dead set against this reform. Why? Because so many are lost at sea and the companies do not want to face huge lawsuits. From 2003-2007, 36 people were lost at sea on cruise ships, including two crewmembers.

So, the cruise ship industry continues to try to minimize any changes in current law in order to protect itself, while honest seamen continue to fight for their rights. And the only way for them to find true justice is to seek help from an experienced maritime law attorney.

If you have lost a family member working at sea, you are entitled to the full protection of the law. The Young Firm has successfully represented many families like yours. Call us toll free today at 866-938-6113 to get your questions answered. We want to help.