Common Injuries on Commercial Fishing Boats

Injuries on commercial fishing vessels are unfortunately all too common in Lafayette. Some of the most common injuries include the following:

  • Traumatic head injuries from swinging pulleys and shackles
  • Crush injuries from winches and lines
  • Back injuries from pulling and pushing heavy items on board without mechanical assistance

Accident victims who suffer any of these injuries while on board a commercial fishing vessel could require long-term medical care. In some cases, they may even become permanently disabled and unable to continue working in the industry. A Lafayette commercial fishing injury attorney could review the accident and injuries and determine whether an injured worker might have a valid legal claim against his or her employer or the business owner.

Why Injuries Occur on Commercial Fishing Vessels

Injuries on commercial fishing vessels could happen for a number of different reasons. In some instances, they might occur because the boat owner fails to maintain the property in a reasonable manner, such as by failing to ensure that the boat decks remain clean and free of debris.

At other times, the owner could fail to maintain the safety equipment that workers use while they are on board, such as emergency signaling equipment and life vests. The boat owner or commercial fishing company might also overwork their employees or fail to supervise them in a reasonable manner, leading to accidents.

In any case, when workers suffer injuries because of their employer’s negligence or that of the boat owner, they might be eligible to file a claim under the Jones Act, or pursuant to some other federal or state law on the books.

A Lafayette commercial fishing injury attorney could assist with filing a claim in the proper court and pursuing compensation on behalf of the injured worker. You can speak with a Lafayette personal injury lawyer to help you pursue compensation.

Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

Get a Free Case Evaluation

Available Damages in Commercial Fishing Boat Accident Cases

Commercial fishing boat workers who suffer their injuries while they are on the job could make a claim for monetary damages against their employer, the boat owner, or some other individual or entity, depending upon the circumstances of the accident.

First, victims of commercial fishing boat accidents could recover compensation for all of the medical costs and physical therapy expenses related to the injury or injuries they suffered while on board. Next, accident victims could recover compensation for the wages they lost while recovering from their accident. Finally, accident victims could make a claim for pain and suffering, representing the lost quality of life and inconvenience they suffered because of their injuries.

branded accent

Iberia Parish Commercial Fishing Injury Lawyer

Duties of Care

Commercial fishing companies and boat owners have a responsibility to take certain measures to ensure the safety of their workers. Those duties include all of the following:

  • Ensuring that all indoor and outdoor surfaces, including boat decks, are free of debris, rainwater, and other slippery substances
  • Ensuring that all emergency equipment, such as life vests, ropes, radios, and emergency signal devices are in proper working order at all times
  • Ensuring that employees are properly trained in commercial fishing operations, rather than hiring inexperienced workers
  • Ensuring that all fishing equipment, such as nets, lines, heavy pots, and cargo, are maintained properly at all times
  • Ensuring that employees do not overwork themselves and make careless mistakes as a result of fatigue

Commercial fishing injury victims often do not know where to turn after an accident. An Iberia Parish commercial finishing injury attorney could help these workers take legal action and pursue financial recovery for their bodily injuries.

Negligence in the Commercial Fishing Industry

Owners of vessels used for commercial fishing operations owe their employees a duty of care. Specifically, they must address known dangerous conditions on the vessel and be sure to maintain all machinery and equipment. When owners or employers fall short of this duty and accidents occur, they could be held responsible for any resulting injuries.

When commercial fishermen in New Parish suffer injuries on the job, they might be eligible to assert a claim for damages against their employer or the owner of the commercial fishing vessel. Compensable damages might include compensation for medical expenses, loss of earnings, loss of earning capacity, inconvenience, pain and suffering, and mental distress.

An Iberia Parish commercial fishing injury lawyer could analyze the facts of an accident to identify the responsible parties. An accomplished Lafayette offshore accident lawyer could then gather the evidence needed to pursue a claim for compensation.

Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.

Syntera was Very professional and courteous. Answered my concerns.

L
Lisa G.

Bridgette is absolutely phenomenal! She's one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated paralegals I've ever had the pleasure of working ...

Bridgette is absolutely phenomenal! She's one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated paralegals I've ever had the pleasure of working with. Her attention to detail is unmatched.
She catches things most people would overlook, and she always makes sure every document is perfect before it leaves her hands.
Beyond her incredible skill set, Bridgette is also kind, reliable, and a true team player. She communicates clearly, stays organized under pressure, and goes above and beyond to make sure clients and attorneys alike feel supported.
You can tell she genuinely cares about her work and the people she helps.
If you're lucky enough to have Bridgette as your paralegal, you're in the best possible hands. Five stars isn't enough for someone this exceptional!

B
Brittany Johnson

Alexandria

Michelle Brouillette is a wonderful addition to the Laborde Earles team.

M
Melanie B.

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica wa...

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to every detail. She took the time to explain each step of the process, answered all of my questions thoroughly, and made sure I always felt supported and informed.
Her dedication and attention to detail were clear throughout, and it was evident she genuinely cared about achieving the best possible outcome. Thanks to Erica’s hard work and expertise, my case went smoothly and successfully.
I highly recommend Erica Ducote to anyone in need of a skilled, reliable, and compassionate paralegal. She truly goes above and beyond!

m
maddie jo

Marksville

Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attor...

Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attorney who is extremely knowledgeable and you'll never doubt that he'll get the job done!

K
Kaitlin H.

I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other thing...

I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other things. Her detailed skills are very delightful. She goes out of her way to check on us, make sure we don't have any questions, and she is always on point. She moves very quick and always goes above and beyond for us to make sure we understand the process. I am so glad I ran into Laborde Earles and Alexis. Everyone will know about this company for sure and Alexis

R
R.S.

Lafayette

They have good to keep me updated on the case but so far the settlement has not been reached.

L
Lisa S.

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earles team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speakin...

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earles team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Marsh today. She was extremely knowledgeable in addition to being patient and empathetic. She was able to provide me with the necessary resources and provided me with encouragement throughout the process. I definitely recommend Laborde Earles! Ask for Courtney!

M
Megan Couvillon

Alexandria

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking...

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Marsh today. She was extremely knowledgeable in addition to being patient and empathetic. She was able to provide me with the necessary resources and provided me with encouragement throughout the process. I definitely recommend Laborde Earls! Ask for Courtney!

M
Megan C.

Over 1,700 5-Star Reviews

Read More Testimonials

Talk to a Lafayette Commercial Fishing Injury Attorney

If you suffered injuries while working aboard a commercial fishing vessel, you have no time to lose in seeking experienced legal counsel. Call a Lafayette commercial fishing injury lawyer today for help settling or litigating your case and pursuing fair compensation for your injuries.

View More Articles Trusted Voices Sharing What Matters

Man with hands clasped talking to another

Blog What Happens If You're Injured Due to Negligent Security at a Bar, Club, or Event?

Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Louisiana p...

Read Full Article
closeup of a car with a crashed hood

Blog Louisiana’s New Comparative Fault Law (2026): What the 51% Rule Means for Your Compensation

If you were injured in Louisiana, a recent change in the law could determine whether you recover compensation or nothing at all. As of Janua...

Read Full Article
woman in neck brace talking to lawyer

Blog Louisiana Sets New Two-Year Statute of Limitations for Tort Claims

Now that Louisiana has set a new two-year statute of limitations on tort claims, injury victims will have more time to take legal action for...

Read Full Article

Guidance you can trust, from people who actually know.

View All FAQs View All Articles

Our Locations Find Your Local Office

Get Legal Help Today Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

25+ Attorneys Collaboration on every case

Call Anytime Speak to our local team 24/7

(337) 777-7777
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
Send Message
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (337) 223-9925.