A fishing boat capsized off the coast of South Carolina on December 19, 2023. At the time, the 30-foot vessel was approximately 34 miles from Charleston. The two fishermen had to abandon the vessel and boarded a raft. A Coast Guard helicopter was luckily able to...
Maritime Law
The Basics of the Jones Act and How It Protects Seamen
Introduction The Merchant Marine Act of 1920, known as the Jones Act, is a fundamental piece of U.S. legislation that provides important protections for seamen injured while performing their duties. Understanding the provisions of the Jones Act is crucial for maritime...
Valaris Fined for Crane Collapse on Offshore Drill Ship
A subsidiary of Valaris has been fined £130,000 by an Aberdeen Court as a result of a March 31, 2016 incident on the Rowan Gorilla VII. At the time, the vessel was in the North Sea conducting operations. The crane was in operation when one of its legs failed, and...
The Hazards of Propeller Injuries from WaveRunner Accidents
WaveRunners, or personal watercraft (PWC), provide a unique and exhilarating way to enjoy the water. However, their operation comes with inherent risks, including the danger of propeller injuries. These injuries can be severe and life-threatening, often resulting in...
The Risks and Prevention of Cargo Shifting Accidents in the Houston Ship Channel
The Houston Ship Channel is a crucial waterway that facilitates a significant volume of commercial traffic, including the transport of various types of cargo. However, the dynamic environment of the channel poses several risks, one of which is cargo shifting...
The Dangers of Strong Currents: Navigating Against Nature’s Pull
Strong currents are one of the most deceptive and dangerous hazards for boat operators, especially those navigating in rivers, coastal areas, or narrow channels. While they may be invisible from the surface, these powerful underwater forces can quickly overwhelm small...
The Role of a Crane Operator in Ensuring Safe Personnel Basket Transfers
Personnel basket transfers are a necessary part of offshore work. Whether moving workers between vessels or from platform to rig, these transfers require focus, timing, and experience. At the center of it all is the crane operator—the person responsible for...
Houthi Rebels Attack Container Ships In Vital Red Sea Corridor
A ballistic missile fired by Houthi rebels struck a cargo ship on Friday, December 19, 2023 near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in the Red Sea. This attack came on the heels of another attack just hours earlier in which another ship was struck by a missile. The attacks...
The Risks of Falling Overboard from a Pontoon Boat
Pontoon boats are popular for their stability and spacious decks, making them ideal for recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, and socializing. However, the open design and high activity levels on pontoon boats also increase the risk of passengers falling...
Psychological Impact of Accidents on Offshore Wind Farm Workers
Accidents at offshore wind farms not only cause physical injuries but can also have profound psychological impacts on workers. The isolated and high-risk environment of offshore wind farms can exacerbate these effects, affecting mental health and overall well-being....

