VB Attorneys Obtains $4,000,000 Verdict on Behalf of Injured Seaman

Vuk Vujasinovic and Job Tennant of VB Attorneys obtained a $4,000,000 jury verdict on behalf of an employee of Phoenix Processor who was injured aboard the ship M/V Excellence during commercial fishing operations in the Bering Sea. This Jones Act case was filed and tried in state court in King County, Washington. The jury returned its verdict on June 16, 2025. The company’s highest offer before trial was $600,000.

The employee, who worked as a Processor, was injured in the factory of the ship when a pan full of frozen fish fell onto the big toe of his left foot, causing it to fracture and dislocate. Despite the employee’s requests to be brought to land for medical treatment, Phoenix Processor made him stay on its ship for 9 days until it completed fishing operations and returned to port in Dutch Harbor, Alaska.

The company’s Claims Manager caused further delays in failing her responsibility to get the injured employee proper and timely medical care per the company’s legal obligation to provide maintenance and cure.

The employee underwent several surgeries to his toe and foot, and was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

To support the case, VB Attorneys retained experts in the fields of marine operations, biomechanics, and life care planning. Claims for past and future lost wages and earnings were withdrawn before trial.

Phoenix Processor denied any and all liability throughout the litigation. 

The jury found the negligence of Phoenix Processor caused the employee’s injury. The jury awarded future medical costs and non-economic damages in the total amount of $4,000,000.  The jury found the employee was 25% negligent in causing the injury, reducing the damages to $3,000,000.

The jury found the employee is not at Maximum Medical Improvement, and therefore Phoenix Processor must continue paying maintenance and cure benefits.

About VB Attorneys

VB Attorneys is a nationally recognized trial law firm based in Houston, Texas. With a proven track record of securing substantial verdicts and settlements, the firm represents individuals and families in cases involving catastrophic personal injuries, maritime and offshore injuries, trucking and workplace accidents, and wrongful death. The attorneys at VB Attorneys are dedicated to fighting for justice and holding corporations accountable for negligence. Learn more at www.vbattorneys.com.