Spagnoletti Law Firm has filed a Jones Act lawsuit against REC Marine Logistics, LLC and GOL, L.L.C. on behalf of a deckhand who suffered serious injuries when the vessel he was working on collided with another vessel. The lawsuit alleges that negligence, failure to maintain a proper lookout, and lack of safe operating procedures led to the preventable accident, causing severe physical harm to the plaintiff.
Incident Overview
On February 23, 2022, the plaintiff was working as a deckhand aboard the M/V Dominic S, a vessel owned and operated by REC Marine Logistics, LLC and GOL, L.L.C. At the time of the incident, the plaintiff was in the wheelhouse with the captain, who had a known history of falling asleep while on watch.
At approximately 2:00 AM, the plaintiff observed distant lights that appeared to be from another vessel. He immediately alerted the captain to the possible presence of a nearby ship. Despite this warning, the Dominic S collided with the other vessel, resulting in significant injuries to the plaintiff.
Allegations of Negligence and Unseaworthiness
The lawsuit claims that multiple safety failures contributed to the plaintiff’s injuries, including failure to operate the vessel in a safe manner, failure to maintain a proper lookout, and failure to monitor the ship’s radar. It further alleges that the crew failed to use searchlights or sound the ship’s horn, did not initiate radio communication with the approaching vessel, and failed to take evasive action despite having sufficient time to do so. The lawsuit also points to negligent hiring and supervision of the captain, who had a history of falling asleep on watch, and a general failure to properly train and monitor crew members to ensure they understood emergency response procedures.
The lawsuit further asserts that the M/V Dominic S was unseaworthy, as it lacked proper operational safeguards, trained personnel, and functional safety equipment, creating a hazardous environment for the crew.
Vessel Owner Responsibilities Under Maritime Law
Vessel owners and operators have a legal duty to ensure the safe operation of their vessels and to protect crew members from preventable dangers. Under the Jones Act and general maritime law, companies like REC Marine Logistics and GOL, L.L.C. are responsible for hiring and training competent crew members, ensuring they are qualified to operate the vessel safely. The failure to employ and supervise capable crew members can lead to poor decision-making in critical situations, as demonstrated in this case.
Vessel owners must enforce strict watchkeeping protocols, requiring captains and crew members to remain alert and attentive at all times. Allowing an unfit captain to remain in command despite prior concerns about his ability to stay awake while on duty constitutes a significant safety failure. Supervisors must also ensure that crew members are regularly trained in emergency procedures, including collision avoidance and proper use of navigational tools.
In addition to crew management, vessel owners must maintain all navigational equipment, such as radar, searchlights, and communication systems, to prevent accidents. A well-maintained vessel ensures that hazards can be detected in time to take evasive action. Owners and operators are also responsible for ensuring that all safety measures are strictly followed, including the use of warning signals and appropriate lighting when operating at night.
Failure to uphold these responsibilities puts crew members at unnecessary risk, increasing the likelihood of accidents and serious injuries. The lawsuit alleges that these obligations were ignored, leading to the plaintiff’s injuries and the avoidable collision.
Next Steps: Understanding Your Rights Under the Jones Act
Seamen who suffer injuries due to unsafe vessel operations, lack of proper supervision, or employer negligence have legal protections under the Jones Act. This law allows injured maritime workers to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Unlike traditional workers’ compensation claims, Jones Act lawsuits require proving negligence, meaning the injured worker must demonstrate that the vessel owner’s failure to maintain safe conditions contributed to the injury. Consulting an experienced maritime attorney ensures that all legal options are pursued.
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm for Maritime Injury Claims
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to a vessel collision, negligent vessel operation, or lack of proper safety measures, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit under the Jones Act and general maritime law. The maritime accident lawyers at Spagnoletti Law Firm have experience handling cases involving unsafe vessel operations, unseaworthy vessels, and employer negligence.
To learn more about your legal options, contact us online or call 713-804-9306 for a free consultation. There are strict deadlines for filing maritime injury claims, so don’t wait to take action.