The Maine Maritime Injury Attorneys You Need

If you’ve been injured at sea, our Portland law firm will fight for your rights

It goes without saying that the ocean is a critical part of Maine’s economy and Mainers’ way of life. From passenger cruise ships to fishing vessels to large freight ships, the maritime industry is responsible for thousands of jobs as well as countless tourists enjoying Maine’s unique charm.

But the sea is also dangerous, and both maritime workers and passengers can be seriously injured when something goes wrong. The consequences of a maritime injury can reverberate through your entire life. You need an experienced injury attorney to help you get your life back.

The personal injury lawyers at Romanow Law Group in Portland have the experience and resources needed to handle high-stakes maritime injury claims for clients in Maine. Whether you were hurt on the job or as a passenger on a ship, we will fight for the justice and compensation you need to rebuild your life. Schedule your free consultation today.

We handle all types of maritime accident cases

Probably the most familiar type of maritime accident is a shipwreck, whether caused by bad weather, rocks, or other hazards. However, there are many other ways people can be injured at sea and in port. Some examples of maritime injury cases we handle include:

Slip, trip, and falls on ships and docks: Maritime environments, including ships and docks, can be hazardous due to the presence of water, changing weather conditions, and uneven surfaces. Slip, trip, and fall accidents can occur when individuals lose their footing, often resulting in injuries such as broken bones, knee injuries, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
Defective products and safety equipment: Maritime workers rely on various equipment and tools to perform their tasks safely. In cases where these products are defective or malfunction, individuals onboard ships or working in port areas can sustain injuries. Defective safety gear, machinery, and tools can lead to accidents, including crushing injuries, burns, and lacerations.
Injuries due to unseaworthy vessels: If a vessel is deemed unseaworthy—meaning it's not fit for its intended purpose due to inadequate maintenance, equipment, or conditions—accidents that result in severe and fatal injuries can occur.
Exposure to toxic chemicals: The maritime industry often involves transporting and handling hazardous materials and chemicals. Accidental leaks, spills, or inadequate safety protocols can lead to crew members or workers being exposed to toxic substances. This exposure can result in various health issues, from respiratory problems to skin disorders and long-term health complications.
Explosions: Explosions aboard ships or in port areas can cause catastrophic injuries and damage. These incidents can be triggered by a variety of factors, including flammable cargo, improper storage of combustible materials, and equipment malfunctions. Explosion-related injuries can include burns, trauma, hearing loss, and psychological trauma.
Vessel sinkings: When a vessel sinks, it poses significant risks to everyone on board. In addition to the immediate danger of drowning, vessel sinkings can lead to injuries from falling debris, panic-induced accidents, and exposure to cold water. Survivors may also experience psychological trauma due to the traumatic experience.

Being injured anywhere can change your life, but injuries at sea are particularly dangerous for two main reasons. First, on the water, there is always the risk of drowning and other incidents that are much less likely to occur on land. Second, there is much less access to medical care at sea. Some injuries that might be more easily treated if the victim could easily be brought to a hospital can become far worse if the victim is on a ship, days away from shore.

Our attorneys know how to get to the bottom of maritime injury cases

Another potential complication in maritime injuries is the difficulty of investigation. Evidence can easily be lost or destroyed. There is often a delay between when the accident occurs and when an attorney can begin an investigation. There are also different laws that apply to maritime injuries and accidents, including:

The Jones Act
The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act
The Death on the High Seas Act
The Limited Liability Act
General maritime law

We understand the state and federal laws that apply to maritime injury cases, and we’re here to help. We will listen to your story and explain your legal rights and options, free of charge. If you choose to hire us to handle your maritime injury case, we will launch an immediate, thorough investigation to get to the bottom of what happened. We will build a strong case to hold the at-fault party or parties accountable, whether that’s a vessel owner, manufacturer, employer, or any other party. And we will fight for the full amount of compensation you deserve, including but not limited to:

Past, present, and future medical expenses, including surgery, medication, medical devices, physical therapy, and other medical treatment.
Lost wages and lost future income.
Modifications to your home or vehicle to accommodate a disability.
Pain and suffering, mental anguish, and emotional distress.
Loss of consortium.
Loss of quality and enjoyment of life.

Schedule your free consultation with a Portland, Maine maritime injury lawyer

You need to move quickly after a maritime injury. Most personal injury claims in Maine have a six-year statute of limitations, but different deadlines can apply in maritime injury cases, and you need a lawyer who can tell you which time limits apply in your case.

Moreover, your attorney needs to start their investigation immediately. Important evidence may be literally washed away. And there is often a lot of pressure on injured seamen to immediately sign releases and waivers that can compromise your rights. The sooner you get an experienced attorney on your side, investigating the incident and protecting your interests, the better the position you will be in to recover.

If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a maritime accident, schedule your free consultation with an injury attorney you can trust. Our conversation is fully confidential and there is no obligation to hire us, just answers about your legal options. Give us a call or contact us online today.