Longshoring Hazards: Common Injuries And How To Protect Your Rights
Loading and unloading ships takes a toll on the body. If you’ve been injured when working on a ship or other aquatic vessel, help is available. Our Savannah Longshore injury attorneys will take legal action on your behalf to right this wrong.
The Dangers of Longshoring
Longshoring strains the arms, back, knees, head, and other body sites. Add in the fact that longshoring takes place amidst dangerous weather including rough seas and there is even more risk to the body.
Some longshoremen are injured during the first week on the job. The physical action of lifting items onto and off of ships strains the knees. Whether you are working on a ferry, tub boat, fishing vessel, or traditional ship, you’ll bend at the knees to pick up cargo, fish, and other items. Bending also takes a toll on the hips, waist, and arms.
Even a slip on the deck when attempting to retrieve cargo can lead to a twisted knee. It is also possible to suffer a knee injury when attempting to stabilize oneself on a ship undulating with the flow of water waves.
If you suffer a torn knee ligament, knee dislocation, strain, sprain, or other knee injury, contact our Savannah longshore injury attorney today for a consultation.
Head Injuries When Longshoring
The skull protects the brain, serving as a barrier that prevents potentially deadly injuries. A traumatic brain injury suffered by a slip and fall on a wet boat deck while longshoring can be a life-changer.
Examples of common head injuries suffered when longshoring include:
- Concussions
- Headaches
- Seizures
- Dizziness
- Ringing in the ears/loss of hearing
It is also possible for a fellow longshoreman to mistakenly strike a coworker in the head when working.
Shoulder, Neck and Back Injuries
Simply walking along a wet deck can lead to a slip and fall that hurts the neck, back, shoulders, and more. Lifting cargo, fish and other items also strains both the back and shoulders. Longshoring also requires twisting, pulling, and other actions that pose a threat to the neck.
Even if you are in great shape and have a strong back, a single fall can hurt your lumbar or cervical region, leading to costly medical bills.
Foot and Leg Injuries
Leg and foot injuries are more common when longshoring than most assume. Lines snap, coworkers misstep onto others’ feet, and sneakers sometimes get caught in winches.
The use of chains, moving lines, cargo, sharp equipment, and cable nets also pose serious threats to the feet and legs.
Learn More During a Consultation With Our Savannah Longshoring Injury Attorneys
If you are injured when longshoring, do not suffer in silence. We’ll fiercely advocate on your behalf to obtain financial compensation for all causally related losses. The process begins with an appointment at our office. Contact our Savannah longshoring injury attorneys today for a consultation.
