The search for the missing crew of the livestock carrier the Gulf Livestock 1 has been called off. Tragically, the ship went missing after making a distress call on September 2, 2020. The livestock carrier was en route from Napier, New Zealand to Tangshan, China. The Japanese Coast Guard began search and rescue operations. Three survivors were found, although one succumbed to his injuries and died shortly after rescue.
The crew of 43 was comprised of 39 seamen from the Philippines, 2 from New Zealand, 1 from Australia and 1 from Singapore. The Filipino maritime workers were placed on the vessel by staffing company Korpil Ship Management and Manning Corp.
It can be dangerous to work in any industry when safety considerations related to dangerous weather conditions are not made. This is especially so when working on a ship. Safe maritime transport companies must ensure that their ships do not put the lives of their crew members at risk. When employers fail to account for dangerous weather conditions, catastrophic incidents can result. It is unknown if the Master of the vessel simply disregarded the typhoon, or miscalculated the path of his ship. The risks of catastrophic death as a result of sailing into dangerous weather conditions such as a hurricane or typhoon must always be taken into account by safe maritime and cargo companies. Routes must be carefully planned in order to minimize risk. Ultimately in this instance, an engine failure left the vessel and its 43 crew members helpless in the face of the typhoon. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by this tragedy.
Spagnoletti Law Firm has handled maritime lawsuits throughout the country on behalf of injured mariners from all over the world. Our attorneys have previously represented the family members of foreign seamen who have lost their lives or been seriously injured in numerous accidents all over the world. Spagnoletti Law Firm has previously represented the family members of Filipino offshore workers who were on the Black Elk Energy offshore oil platform that exploded in 2012. Our lawyers have extensive experience in maritime personal injury and wrongful death litigation and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously injured as a result of the negligence of another party.
The experienced maritime attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of this tragic accident. There are strict and short time limits on making claims related to vessel accidents, so please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your rights.