Maritime Fire Accident Aboard Galveston Ferry Boat
Galveston county fire fighters are investigating the cause of a Texas ferry boat fire that broke out in the engine room as the vessel traveling from Galveston to the Bolivar Peninsula. The March 21st fire resulted in no injuries.
The fire apparently ignited at 6:40 pm on the Gilchrist. The boat had just left the Bolivar landing when crew members noticed smoke from the engine. The boat was immediately turned around to return to the Bolivar landing. Fire fighters managed to extinguish the fire in half an hour. There were 65 to 70 vehicles on the ferry at the time of the fire, all of them were off-loaded without any damage. Passengers were not informed of the reason for the turnaround. Police continue to investigate the cause of the fire. The U.S. Coast Guard is also expected to visit the Bolivar ferry landing to conduct its own inspection of the Gilchrist.
Fortunately, there were no injuries on board the Gilchrist. Fires on a water craft are often linked to explosions; the fire on the Gilchrist appears to have ignited in the engine. This can happen due to improper maintenance of the fuel system. Fires can also break out due to electrocution, when the vessel comes in contact with a live power line.
Crew members who work on ferry boats may be eligible for compensation under maritime laws in the event of an accident, because a ferry fits the definition of a Jones Act vessel. Crew members working on the boat also qualify as Jones Act seamen under the provisions of the Act.
Why You Need a Maritime Attorney
Very often, maritime workers are not aware of their rights in the event of an injury or accident. For this reason it is imperative that ferry boat, cruse ship, and other vessel crew get in touch with a maritime lawyer immediately after an accident. An attorney will determine whether you fall under the purview of maritime laws and help you draft a damages claim. Damages can include medical expenses, hospitalization expenses, costs of rehabilitation, etc.
If you have been injured in an accident aboard a ferry boat, cruise ship, barge, or other vessel, contact a maritime attorney at Arnold & Itkin LLP for a free consultation.
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