Injured on a Tugboat? Here’s What You Need to Know About Jones Act Claims & More

Tugboats play a crucial role in maritime operations, guiding massive vessels safely through ports and waterways. But working on a tugboat is physically demanding and comes with significant risks. Slippery decks, heavy machinery, unpredictable weather, and long hours all contribute to potential accidents and injuries. If you’ve been injured while working on a tugboat, it’s important to understand your rights and the steps you should take to protect yourself.

Common Causes of Tugboat Injuries

Tugboat crews face unique dangers on the job. Some of the most common causes of injuries include:

• Slips, Trips, and Falls – Wet or uneven decks, unsecured equipment, and unpredictable movements of the vessel increase the risk of serious falls.
• Equipment Malfunctions – Tugboats rely on winches, cables, and heavy machinery, which can cause severe injuries if not properly maintained.
• Collisions and Groundings – Accidents involving other vessels or obstacles can lead to serious trauma for crew members.
• Exposure to Hazardous Conditions – Working long shifts in extreme weather conditions can cause injuries related to fatigue, cold exposure, or heat exhaustion.
• Overexertion and Repetitive Strain – Lifting heavy objects and performing repetitive tasks can lead to chronic injuries like back pain and joint damage.
  
  

What to Do After a Tugboat Injury

If you’ve been injured while working on a tugboat, taking the right steps early on can make a significant difference in your recovery and any potential legal claim.

1. Report the Injury Immediately – Notify your supervisor or captain as soon as possible and ensure the incident is documented.
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if your injuries seem minor, getting checked by a medical professional is crucial for your health and for legal purposes.
3. Document Everything – Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any unsafe conditions that may have contributed to the incident. If possible, gather witness statements from coworkers.
4. Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Advice – Your employer or their insurance company may ask you to sign paperwork that could limit your rights. Speak with a maritime injury attorney before agreeing to anything.
5. Consult a Maritime Lawyer – The laws surrounding maritime injuries, including the Jones Act and maintenance and cure, are complex. A skilled attorney can help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
   
   

Jones Act Claims & More

Maritime workers, including tugboat crew members, are protected by laws such as:

• The Jones Act – This law allows injured seamen to file claims against their employer for negligence, which could include unsafe working conditions or improper maintenance of equipment.
• Maintenance and Cure – If you’re injured on the job, your employer is required to cover your medical expenses (cure) and provide a daily living allowance (maintenance) while you recover.
• Unseaworthiness Claims – If a vessel is not in a safe condition or lacks proper equipment, an injured worker may have a claim for damages.
  
  

We Have Defended Tugboat Workers Injured by Negligence

At VB Attorneys, we have helped several injured tugboat workers fight for their rights. Through our investigations, we’ve discovered that some tugboat companies lack even the most basic safety protocols. One alarming issue is the absence of food safety standards, which can put workers’ health at risk. Even more concerning, many companies fail to train their employees on how to respond to emergency medical situations—something that can be the difference between life and death in a crisis.

A few years ago, we represented a tugboat worker from a company with a history of neglecting its employees' well-being. Our client developed an eye infection while aboard a company tugboat. His eyelids became so swollen that he lost most of his vision. He immediately informed the captain, but instead of calling for emergency medical help, the captain and company forced him to finish his hitch. Even worse, they made him drive a crew van full of employees across Houston in rush-hour traffic—while nearly blind. Instead of arranging for emergency care at the nearest dock, they left him to fend for himself. Only after he finished driving the crew did they allow him to seek medical attention on his own.

With our help, he was able to receive the medical care he needed, restore most of his vision, and hold the company accountable for its reckless disregard for his health. Unfortunately, stories like this are far too common, and many injured workers don’t realize they have legal options.

We Are Here to Help

If you or a loved one has been injured while working on a tugboat, you may be in the position to file a Jones Act claim. Our Jones Act team is here to help. Our experienced maritime lawyers understand the challenges that injured crew members face and will fight to get you the compensation you need to recover. Contact us today for a free consultation.