What is third-party liability in a maritime injury case?
Third-party liability in a maritime injury case refers to the responsibility of a person or entity that is not the injured party’s employer for paying compensation to the injured party. Examples of third-party entities may include vessel owners, manufacturers of defective products, and operators of a maintenance facility. When a maritime worker is hurt due to the negligence or carelessness of another person or entity, the injured person can file a lawsuit seeking compensation from the responsible third-party. The injured worker must prove that the third-party was negligent or careless and that the third-party’s negligence caused their injury. The injured worker must also show that the third-party owed a duty of care to the worker. This usually includes a duty to keep their employees or property safe from harm, or providing adequate safety apparel and equipment. In Texas, compensation for an injured worker is limited under the Jones Act, which states that an employer holds a higher standard of care for their employees while on the job. If a third-party is found liable for a maritime injury, the victim may be able to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages caused by the injury. In order to collect compensation from a third-party, an experienced maritime accident attorney should be consulted. The attorney can evaluate the case to determine who is liable, what damages are available, and how to prove liability in court.
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