Seattle Injury Lawyer Blog
According to news reports, one crew member is dead and another missing after the Kodiak-based F/V ADVANTAGE sank 50 miles southeast of Kodiak City. According the U.S. Coast Guard, three crew members were rescued from their liferaft by a Coast Guard helicopter. None of the crewmembers were wearing survival suits. Skipper Leif Bolan died after he and two crewmembers were transported to the hospital in Kodiak, Alaska. Another crewmember, Jaime Gallege, was missing in the water. At the time of the incident, the weather conditions were reportedly good with 2-3 foot seas. It is presently unknown why the vessel sank and the Coast Guard is reportedly investigating the cause of the sinking.
As seaman injured or killed in the service of the vessel, these crew members are covered by the Jones Act. The Jones Act provides a cause of action for wrongful death of a crew member and may provide the family with much needed financial support after the devastating loss of a loved one. Moreover, injured crew members may collect damages under the Jones Act for lost wages and other damages for pain, disability, and loss of enjoyment of life. With decades of experience representing seamen, our firm is ready to help navigate these difficult issues. If you need help, give us a call for a no-cost consultation to get your questions answered by an experienced maritime lawyer.