Staying true to its name, Portland, Oregon, the state’s largest and most populous city, is a stronghold in the maritime industry. As a major port in the Willamette Valley region of the Pacific Northwest, it possesses large marine shipping facilities and waterborne transportation activity such as cruises. Portland’s marine terminals handle tens of millions in tons of cargo every year, making it the third-largest export tonnage port on the west coast of the United States. Breakbulk, dry bulk, grain, automobiles - you name it. Even more, with access to North American rail connections, Portland’s location holds a geographical advantage that further boosts the area's participation in shipping and inland transportation logistics.
Many people residing in the City of Portland work on the waterways or at the shoreline, advancing the economy and supporting the community as a whole. Marine injuries happen all too frequently in and around Portland, especially if employers and vessel owners are negligent. Luckily, maritime employees of Portland are often protected by the Jones Act and general maritime law. This means that certain maritime workers are protected by federal statute and may be entitled to damages in the event of a workplace accident. A competent and confident offshore injury lawyer from Mariner Law, PLLC can help identify the best course of action for victims and secure rightful compensation.
The carriage of goods and people by sea can be, at times, unpredictable and high-risk. But that's why it is of the utmost importance that vessels and maritime employers create and implement safety protocols that minimize the risk faced by those working amidst the perils of the sea. Where employers and vessel operators are not safety-minded, harm may ensue and can result in high medical bills, loss of wages, and prolonged suffering. Mariner Law, PLLC is equipped to file and advance claims of injured maritime workers and maximize their chances of receiving rightful compensation under the circumstances.
The Jones Act was passed by Congress to help maritime employees such as fishermen, crewmen, mates, deckhands, engineers, and other commercial mariners make claims if they are injured during an event that occurred due to negligence. The doctrine of unseaworthiness requires vessel owners to provide seamen with a vessel, equipment, and crew that are fit for their intended use. If the owner fails to provide that, it can be liable for damages under general maritime law. In any event, a maritime employee hurt on the job may be entitled to medical expenses and living expense under the ancient admiralty remedy of maintenance and cure.
Maritime law is complicated. Mariner Law, PLLC can help with cases involving losses such as:
Wrongful death
Lost limbs
Drowning
Slip, trip and falls
Chemical exposure
Electrical shock
Crushed body parts
Head injuries
Fractures
Mariner Law, PLLC is experienced in maritime personal injury law and understands the marine transportation industry. The firm represents merchant mariners, crewmembers, recreational boaters, and others who are injured on or near the water. A qualified maritime lawyer knows what it takes to fight for maximum compensation in a maritime injury case. Mariner Law, PLLC is ready to help you navigate the maritime injury claims system, so call (971) 394-9900 today to ask questions and learn about your options from an Oregon Jones Act lawyer.
An admiralty attorney may also be available to meet potential clients by appointment at its office in Portland, Oregon: 4949 S. Macadam Ave. Portland, OR 97239.