Last Updated on April 15, 2025 by tanya

Common Injuries In Commercial Fishing

 

High Risk Factors and Compensation

 

Due to the high-risk nature of the job, there are common injuries in a commercial fishing. The fishing industry plays an important role in supplying food globally and for coastal economies. But it comes with significant hazards and is considered to be one of the most dangerous occupations in the world.

Fishing crews often operate heavy machinery, work in unpredictable weather conditions, and deal with high-pressure environments. Anyone who has watched the film ‘The Perfect Storm, will see an example of how fishermen will risk their safety on rough seas to bring in an income.

If you’ve been hurt while working aboard a trawler, which was not your fault, you may be eligible to make a claim for compensation. First Personal Injury can help you with the claims process.

 

Common Injuries Sustained on Commercial Fishing Trawlers

 

Working on a fishing boat presents a lot of different hazards which may lead to injury. Here are some of the more frequently reported injuries:

 

Overboard Incidents Resulting in Injury

One of the deadliest risks in commercial fishing is falling overboard, particularly in rough seas or during night shifts. In such incidents, immediate rescue is critical.

 

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Due to the constantly wet and often freezing conditions on deck, slips, trips, and falls are among the most common injuries on trawlers. Crew members can potentially fall overboard, onto hard surfaces, or into equipment. This may result in broken bones, sprains, and head injuries.

 

Crush Injuries

Working with heavy fishing gear, such as winches, nets, and hydraulic machinery, exposes fishing crews to the risk of being crushed or pinned. These accidents can cause severe injuries such as fractures, amputations, or internal trauma.

 

Lacerations and Puncture Wounds

Handling sharp equipment such as knives, hooks, and fishing lines increases the chances of cuts and puncture wounds. Infections can also occur quickly, with minor wounds becoming serious health concerns.

 

Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries

Falls, swinging equipment, and heavy objects being moved around unstable decks can lead to head injuries. These injuries may include concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

 

Back and Musculoskeletal Injuries

Lifting heavy loads, repetitive motion, and long hours of physically demanding labour can cause strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal disorders.

 

Hypothermia and Cold-Related Illnesses

Prolonged exposure to cold, wet, and windy conditions can cause hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold-related illnesses. This can especially happen in cases where safety gear is inadequate.

 

High-Risk Factors on Commercial Fishing Boats

 

There are several high-risk factors contribute to the hazardous nature of commercial fishing, including:

 

Adverse Weather Conditions

 

Sudden changes in weather, high winds, storms, and icy decks make the working environment unpredictable and hazardous. Poor visibility and rough seas increase the risk of falls and equipment-related accidents.

 

Fatigue and Long Working Hours

 

Fishing trips can last for days or weeks, often with minimal rest breaks. Fatigue affects concentration, decision-making, and physical performance, making accidents more likely.

 

Heavy Machinery and Equipment

Fishing trawlers typically rely on industrial winches, cranes, hydraulic systems, and nets. All of these may cause injuries if not properly maintained.

 

Inadequate Training

Lack of comprehensive safety training for new crew members or infrequent safety drills contributes to a higher risk of workplace injuries. Crew members may not be aware of the correct procedures or how to respond in emergencies.

 

Poor Safety Equipment

Defective or insufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), such as life jackets, gloves, helmets, and harnesses, increases the risk of injury. Failure to supply or enforce the use of proper safety gear is a significant hazard.

 

When Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim?

 

If you’re injured while working on a commercial fishing trawler and it was not your fault, you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim.

The factors to consider may include:

 

• The injury was caused by unsafe working conditions.
• There was a failure to provide adequate safety equipment.
• Proper maintenance of the vessel or machinery was neglected.
• The injury resulted from negligence by the vessel’s owner, captain, or another crew member.
• You were not given proper training or safety instructions.
• You were forced to work excessive hours leading to fatigue-related accidents.

 

It’s important to report the injury immediately, seek medical attention, and document the circumstances around the fishing boat accident. Gathering witness statements and any photographic evidence can strengthen your case.

 

Filing a ‘No Win, No Fee’ Claim For Compensation

 

If you’ve suffered an injury which was not your fault, you may want to find out more about a claim for compensation. Working on a commercial fishing trawler with unsafe conditions, poor equipment, or negligence, may entitle you to pursue a personal injury claim.

Compensation generally covers your medical bills, pain and suffering, as well as lost wages. For a claim to be successful, you will also be required to link your injury to negligence which led to your accident.

 

It is important to remember that a personal injury lawyer can assess your claim. Reaching out to a trusted claims company can make a significant difference in your journey ahead. At First Personal Injury, we work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and will ensure you receive all the support you need. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online at First Personal Injury to learn more.