Maritime Injury Stats in the US

Maritime industries are vital to the U.S. economy, providing crucial jobs across various sectors, from commercial fishing and shipping to recreational boating. However, naval work comes with unique dangers. At Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP, we’ve seen firsthand how these accidents can devastate lives, leaving workers with severe injuries or worse. This blog will explore maritime injury statistics in the U.S., highlighting the most dangerous areas of marine work and how a maritime injury lawyer can help injured workers seek legal assistance and compensation.

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Maritime Injury Statistics in the US

Work at sea is known for its inherent dangers; the statistics reflect this grim reality. From commercial fishing and marine terminals to seafood processing plants and military vessels, nautical personnel face a variety of hazards unique to their industry. Whether operating heavy machinery, navigating treacherous weather, or handling toxic materials, these employees work in environments that put them at constant risk for injury or even death.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), these activities have been associated with unique dangers affecting both civilian and worker populations. These risks include mechanical injuries, exposure to toxic substances, and fall-related incidents, all prevalent in naval occupations. Workers aboard ships and those in shore-based roles like dock work, seafood processing, and maintenance are regularly exposed to obstacles that can lead to long-term health issues or fatal accidents. The nature of maritime work often exacerbates the consequences of such wounds, as workers may be isolated at sea or in remote locations, delaying access to proper medical care.

In addition to the inherent dangers, the statistics from recent reports highlight the severity of lesions across this industry. Between 2011 and 2017, the fatal injury rate for workers was five times higher than the national average for all U.S. industries. This figure is especially alarming in marine terminals and seafood processing sectors, where the harm rates are significantly elevated. For instance, marine terminal workers faced a fatal injury rate of 15.9 per 100,000 workers per year—much higher than workers in other sectors. In seafood processing plants, the harm rate was recorded at 6,670 per 100,000 workers, making it one of the most dangerous maritime occupations.

Marine Terminals

These workers are essential for handling and transferring cargo at U.S. ports. Nevertheless, their work environment is particularly hazardous. From 2011 to 2017, the rate of fatal impairments among marine terminal workers was 15.9 per 100,000 workers per year—five times higher than the average rate for all U.S. workers. This staggering figure shows how dangerous marine terminals can be due to heavy machinery, frequent handling of massive cargo containers, and the high-paced nature of port work.

Based on a report by Safety4Sea, between 2014 and 2021, maritime casualties and incidents averaged over 3,000 annually across various sectors. Longshoremen and marine terminal workers are among the most vulnerable to these dangers, underscoring the need for more robust safety measures.

These statistic highlight the need for stringent safety protocols, better training, and constant vigilance to protect workers from preventable injuries and fatalities. Workers hurt in marine terminals should also understand their legal rights to seek compensation.

Seafood Processing

Seafood processing workers endure one of the highest injury and illness rates in the entire maritime industry. Between 2011 and 2017, this sector had 6,670 lesions per 100,000 workers, the highest rate of any marine occupation. These lesions often result from handling dangerous equipment, repetitive strain from manual tasks, and working in cold, wet conditions that can cause slip-and-fall accidents.

Despite efforts to improve conditions, the seafood processing industry remains one of the most hazardous areas of maritime work. Workers who have suffered injuries should seek immediate legal counsel to understand their rights under maritime law.

Recreational Boating

While often considered a leisurely activity, recreational boating still presents significant risks for harm. In 2022, there were 2,222 injuries reported in recreational boating accidents, with a fatality rate of 5.4 deaths per 100,000 registered vessels. Many of these impairments are the result of operator inexperience, alcohol consumption, and unsafe boating practices.

Recreational boating accidents often lead to serious legal consequences, especially when negligence is involved. Wounded parties should consult a maritime injury lawyer to explore their options for pursuing compensation.

Please read Boating Safety Tips

US Navy

Working aboard U.S. Navy vessels has unique dangers beyond typical civilian maritime risks. A comprehensive 50-year analysis of U.S. Navy vessels reveals 2,079 injuries and 1,048 fatalities over the study period. The most common types of afflictions include electrocution, blunt head trauma, falls from heights, man-overboard incidents, and explosions. Many of these result from operating in confined, high-risk environments where even minor mistakes can lead to devastating consequences. According to the study, these injuries often occur during routine ship operations, as well as during emergencies such as fires and man-overboard rescues.

This long-term data underscores the severe risks those serving on naval vessels face, highlighting the importance of rigorous safety protocols and emergency preparedness. Managing the legal and compensation processes can be complex for injured Navy personnel, making it critical to consult with an experienced maritime injury lawyer.

Common Accidents in the Maritime Industry

Marine work is inherently dangerous, and accidents can happen in many different ways, often with severe consequences. From vessel collisions to falls from heights, maritime workers face a unique set of risks that other industries might not encounter. Below, we outline some of the most common types of accidents in this industry, explaining how they occur and the potential legal recourse for injured workers.

Vessel Collisions

These are among the most dangerous accidents in the maritime industry. They often occur due to poor visibility, human error, equipment failure, or severe weather conditions. Whether the collision involves two ships or a vessel striking a stationary object, the impact can result in grave damage or fatalities. Shifting cargo may throw crew members overboard, trap, or crush them. Victims of vessel collisions may pursue compensation through maritime law, especially if negligence or faulty equipment is found to be the cause.

Falls from Heights

Falls from elevated areas are a frequent hazard in the maritime industry, particularly on ships and offshore platforms where workers perform tasks on high surfaces. These accidents can occur when workers lose their balance, fail to use safety harnesses, or improperly maintain ladders and guardrails. Common lesions from falls include fractures, head trauma, and spinal cord injuries. Employers must provide safety equipment and proper training, and workers injured in such incidents may be entitled to compensation under the Jones Act.

Heavy Machinery Accidents

This machinery is essential in maritime industries but poses significant risks to workers. Cranes, forklifts, winches, and conveyors are often used in shipyards and ports, and any malfunction or improper operation can lead to severe accidents. Workers can be crushed, caught in equipment, or struck by heavy loads. Machinery-related injuries often result in amputations or fatalities. Proper training and equipment maintenance are crucial to prevent these accidents. Injured workers may seek compensation if the equipment was faulty or improperly used.

Exposure to Toxic Substances

Many workers are exposed to hazardous chemicals and toxic substances, particularly in confined spaces like engine rooms or when transporting dangerous cargo. Prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory issues, chemical burns, and even long-term illnesses like cancer. Toxic fumes, spills, or leaks are common causes of exposure-related injuries. Safety regulations require employers to provide protective gear and ensure proper ventilation. Harmed workers may file claims under maritime law if their exposure resulted from insufficient safety measures or improper handling of hazardous materials.

Burns

Burn injuries are common in the industry, particularly in engine rooms, galleys, and chemical storage facilities. They may result from fires, explosions, hot surfaces, or exposure to corrosive substances. Workers on ships and offshore platforms face heightened risks due to the confined spaces and flammable materials involved in daily operations. This can range from minor to life-threatening, requiring extensive medical treatment. Under maritime law, workers injured in burn-related incidents may be eligible for compensation, especially if safety procedures were neglected.

Repetitive Use Injuries

Repetitive use injuries develop over time and are shared among maritime workers involved in tasks that require repeated motions, such as lifting, cutting, or operating machinery. These lesions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and chronic back pain, can result from the constant strain of repetitive movements. Though not as immediately obvious as sudden accidents, these harms can severely impact a worker’s ability to continue their job. Workers with repetitive use damages may be entitled to compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) or similar maritime laws.

Seeking Legal Help After a Maritime Injury

At Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP, we know how challenging life can get after a maritime injury. The Jones Act and other maritime laws are here to protect you, ensuring you can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more. Whether your lesion was from a vessel collision, heavy machinery, or toxic exposure, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.

C.J. Baker

C.J. Baker represents victims with serious injuries and he won’t let any corporation or insurance company stop his clients from getting complete justice. He has won millions of dollars for victims of 18-wheeler crashes, oilfield equipment failures, offshore platform explosions, and defective medical devices. Our lawyers have 25+ years of combined experience.

Get in touch with C.J. Baker now.