Last Updated on March 19, 2025 by tanya

Ship or Ferry Accident Risks

 

Negligence and Personal Injury Claims

 

Operating every day across oceans and inland seas underlines the possible ship or ferry accident risks. These can cause a wide range of injuries from minor bruises to life-changing conditions. These accidents may be caused by different factor from poor weather conditions, human error, mechanical failure and unsafe conditions on board.

Victims of such accidents may be able to file a personal injury claim if this was caused by someone else’s negligence. Whether you are an employee or passenger, if you have been hurt in a maritime accident which was not your fault, First Personal Injury can help.

 

We work with personal injury lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis who can assess your case at no cost and advise if you have a valid claim for compensation.

 

Common Injuries in Ship and Ferry Accidents

 

Due to the contained environment of vessels, ship or ferry accident risks include a range of possible harm to crew or passengers.

 

Slip and Fall Injuries

Slip and fall accidents are among the most common injuries sustained on ships and ferries. These can occur due to wet or slippery decks, uneven surfaces, or poorly maintained walkways. Possible injuries may be fractures or broken bones, sprains and strains, or head injuries including concussion.

Drowning and Near-Drowning Injuries

In the event of a ferry or ship accident, one of the biggest risks for passengers and crew is being thrown overboard. This can cause drowning or near drowning. Oxygen deprivation can cause brain damage or respiratory complications.

 

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Traumatic brain injuries can occur if passengers or crew hit their heads against hard surfaces due to sudden impacts, falls, or collapsing structures. TBIs can result in long-term cognitive and neurological issues.

 

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal injuries can be caused by falling from heights or if you are are subjected to significant impact forces. These type of injuries can cause chronic pan and potentially partial or complete paralysis.

 

Crush Injuries

As ships and ferries typically have heavy equipment, cargo or structures, victims can become trapped leading to crush injuries. This results in internal bleeding and organ damage.

 

Burns

Fires and explosions can be caused by fuel leaks, electrical malfunctions, or kitchen fires.

 

Broken Bones and Fractures

Collisions, falls, and heavy impacts can lead to broken bones and fractures. These injuries may require surgeries, physical therapy and possibly prolonged recovery periods.

Psychological and Emotional Trauma

Apart from physical injuries, victims of ship or ferry accidents may experience significant psychological distress. This may include post-traumatic stress disorder, depression or a fear of water travel.

 

How Do Accidents Happen?

Ship and ferry accidents can occur due to a variety of factors, many of which are preventable with proper safety measures.

 

Human Error

Human error is one of the leading causes of ship and ferry accidents. Mistakes by the captain, crew, or onboard staff can lead to severe incidents. This may encompass navigational errors, poor decision making in hazardous conditions, or overworked crew members making mistakes.

 

Mechanical Failures

A ship’s mechanical components require regular maintenance. If proper inspections and repairs are neglected, equipment failure can result in dangerous situations. This could be the engine malfunctioning or steering system failing. Another high risk is faulty safety equipment such as life rafts and fire suppression systems.

 

Poor Weather Conditions

Storms, heavy rainfall, fog, and strong waves can create dangerous conditions at sea. While experienced operators can navigate through challenging weather, failure to take proper precautions can lead to collisions with other vessels, capsizing or grounding.

 

Overcrowding and Overloading

Ships and ferries have weight and capacity limits to ensure safe operation. When operators exceed these limits, the vessel may become unstable. This may increase the risk of capsizing and difficulty in evacuating passengers during an emergency.

 

Fire and Explosions

Fires and explosions on ships can be catastrophic. These are typically caused by fuel leaks, kitchen or engine room fires, or electrical faults.

 

Insufficient Safety Measures

A lack of proper safety protocols and equipment can turn minor accidents into life-threatening situations. Some common safety failures include insufficient lifeboats or life jackets. Poorly trained crew, especially in emergencies. Lack of safety drills for passengers.

 

When Can You File a Personal Injury Claim?

 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a ship or ferry accident, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim. However, for a claim to be successful, you must be able to show that the operator or another third party acted negligently. You will also be required to show how this negligence caused your injury.

It is important to remember that a personal injury lawyer can assess your claim. Compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost earnings and pain and suffering.

 

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.