Maritime workers often encounter confined spaces during their duties, such as tanks, cargo holds, and engine rooms. While these areas are essential for vessel operations, they pose significant risks. At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping maritime...
Maritime Law
The Risk of Collisions in Boating Accidents
Collisions are one of the most common and dangerous types of boating accidents, leading to significant injuries, fatalities, and extensive property damage. These incidents occur when boats crash into each other, stationary objects, or even underwater hazards....
Another U.S. Vessel Attacked in Red Sea
The bulk carrier GENCO PICARDY was hit by a drone on January 17, 2024. At the time, the vessel was in the western portion of the Gulf of Aden. According to reports, a drone carrying explosives was launched from Yemeni territory and collided with the vessel. Houthi...
What boating practices can be dangerous and unlawful?
Sailing or boating can be thrilling and exciting, but this leisure pastime often comes with risks that can endanger the vessel and its passengers within the blink of an eye. Boat operators are responsible for preventing or avoiding these risks, emphasized by...
Boating Accidents on Lake Tyler: The Risks of Towing Activities and How to Stay Safe
Lake Tyler is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, with activities such as water skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding being particularly popular. These towing activities offer a thrilling way to enjoy the water, but they also come with unique risks that can lead to...
The Risk of Capsizing in Sailboats
Capsizing is one of the most dangerous risks faced by sailboats, posing significant threats to both the vessel and its occupants. Capsizing occurs when a sailboat is overturned in the water, often leading to serious injuries, loss of the boat, and in the worst cases,...
The Impact of Weather Conditions on Offshore Wind Farm Safety
Weather conditions play a critical role in the safety of offshore wind farms. The very nature of these installations, positioned in open water and designed to harness wind power, makes them particularly vulnerable to meteorological phenomena. This article examines how...
The Risk of Fires on Oil Tankers in Galveston Bay
Galveston Bay is a crucial hub for oil transportation, with numerous oil tankers navigating its waters to supply refineries and distribute fuel across the nation. While oil tankers play an essential role in the energy industry, they also pose significant risks due to...
GIBRALTAR EAGLE Hit by Missile in Gulf of Aden
The bulk carrier GIBRALTAR EAGLE was hit by a missile on January 15, 2024. At the time, the vessel was in the Gulf of Aden. According to reports the missile was launched by Houthis, potentially in retaliation for recent air strikes conducted by the United States. ...
The Seaman’s Protection Act and Its Impact on Company Policy
The Seaman’s Protection Act, 46 U.S.C.A. § 2114 ("SPA") was originally passed in 1984 and was intended to increase safety for maritime workers by prohibiting employers from retaliating against employees that report unsafe work conditions to a government regulatory...

