In any professional setting, safety should be a top priority, and being informed about potential hazards is the first step towards creating a secure work environment. There are many fishing accidents which can lead to devastating life changing injuries or niggly long term difficulties. It is important you take advice on how to make a claim, even if someone else was only partly to blame.
Fishing accidents can encompass a wide range of accidents that occur during recreational or professional fishing activities. These accidents may involve various factors, such as:
Boating Collisions: Accidents involving boats are unfortunately common during fishing trips. Collisions with other vessels, submerged objects, or even docks can lead to serious injuries.
Slip and Falls: Slippery surfaces, uneven terrain, or poorly maintained fishing areas can contribute to slip and fall accidents. Injuries from such incidents can range from minor bruises to more severe fractures.
Equipment Malfunctions: Defective fishing equipment or poorly maintained gear can pose a significant risk. Malfunctions may result in injuries such as cuts, burns, or even more severe harm.
Drowning Incidents: Accidental drowning is a serious concern, especially when proper safety precautions are not followed. This can happen due to a boating mishap, falling overboard, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Lack of training in using the boat and/or equipment: the equipment used is often heavy, powerful and fast moving. Your employer has to ensure that any machinery is in good working order and if you operate it that you have received sufficient training.
Poor working conditions: Your employer has to ensure you have a safe working environment and that the vessel is properly maintained to reduce the risk of any fishing trawler injury to you.
Unsafe systems: Fishing employers should ensure there is a safe system in place to ensure employees are not injured. This system must also be enforced. Your employer has a duty to assess the risks of any task they want you to do and devise and implement a safe way for you to carry out that task.
Your employer should take steps to reduce the likelihood of an accident and injury. The should take steps such as:
In summary, your employer should have provided you with safety protocols, training programmes and personal protective equipment before each trip to mitigate risks and protect you whilst on the job.
In the unfortunate event of a slip, trip, or fall at the workplace, individuals may be entitled to take a personal injury claim for several reasons:
Negligence: If the accident resulted from the negligence of another party—such as an employer failing to address a known hazard—there may be grounds for a personal injury claim.
Medical Expenses: Workplace injuries often incur medical expenses. A personal injury claim can help cover these costs, additional medical cover, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment where out with the NHS.
Lost Wages: Following an injury, an individual may need time off work for recovery. Compensation from a personal injury claim can help cover lost wages during this period.
Pain and Suffering: Physical injuries can cause emotional distress and pain. Compensation from a claim may account for the mental and emotional toll of the accident.
Preventive Measures: Pursuing a personal injury claim can incentivise employers to take preventive measures, such as improving safety protocols and maintaining a hazard-free workplace.
Remember, every workplace accident is unique, and seeking legal advice is crucial for determining the specific merits of a personal injury claim. Prioritising safety measures within the workplace and in outdoor areas controlled by the Council is essential, but in the unfortunate event of an accident, knowing your rights and options is equally important.
If you or a loved one has suffered a fishing related injury, don't hesitate to contact us. We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and discuss your legal options. Let us help you seek justice and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. There are time scales and you should contact us as soon as possible to investigate an action for you
Your well-being is our priority, and we are committed to providing you with the legal representation you need during this challenging time.
Our solicitors understand the complex and long-lasting challenges posed by fishing injury.
If you or a loved one has experienced a fishing accident reach out to Speir Buchan today. We are here to provide not only expert legal guidance but also an understanding of the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you face. Together, we will work towards securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
Officials take fishing and aquaculture safety very seriously. But having so many people, regulations and agencies in one sector can lead to confusion when you need help after an accident.
The specialist nature of working in this sector introduced several regulatory bodies and when accidents happen, multiple investigations can occur:
