What is the ‘vessel owner’s liability’ and how does it affect my claim?
The vessel owner’s liability refers to a vessel owner’s responsibility for any person who is injured on their vessel, or who is injured due to the vessel’s negligence. In Washington, the vessel owner’s liability is determined by the state’s maritime law and the federal Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. Under maritime law, a vessel owner must act with reasonable care to ensure the safety of those aboard their vessel. If a vessel owner is negligent in providing a safe environment, they can be held liable for any resulting injuries. For example, if the vessel owner fails to maintain the vessel’s safety standards or fails to properly equip the vessel, they can be held responsible for any injuries that occur as a result. If you are injured due to the vessel’s negligence, then the vessel owner’s liability affects your claim in several ways. First, you may be able to bring a personal injury claim against the vessel owner. This means that you can seek compensation for losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Secondly, if you are a maritime worker, you may be eligible for compensation under the federal Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. This Act not only covers medical bills and lost wages, but also provides compensation for any permanent disability or loss of earning capacity. In either case, if you are injured due to the vessel’s negligence, you may be eligible to pursue a claim against the vessel owner under Washington’s maritime law and the federal Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. It is important to note that the vessel owner’s liability may vary depending on the circumstances of the incident and the laws in the state where the incident occurred. It is important to consult with an experienced maritime lawyer to determine your rights and the vessel owner’s liability in your specific case.
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