Item: Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, P.A.
Rating: 5
Author: Daniel

Fatal Accident at Miami Port Shows Need for Port Workers to Focus on Safety

Mariners and fishermen topped the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' list of most dangerous jobs for 2010. Six other jobs that people regularly do around ports and docks are also on the list, including truck driving, ship and tugboat operation and construction. The list highlights the safety risks that those who work in Florida ports or on ships sailing to and from Miami face every day.

A fatal dock accident in Miami, Florida in March 2011 showed the need for all Florida longshore workers to follow safety precautions to reduce their risk of injury or death.

Defective Ramp Braking System Causes Miami Longshoreman's Death

On March 30, 2011 a member of the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) union working on the ship Seaboard Victory died when a refrigerated container and chassis sitting on a ramp on the ship fell on him. The worker had just released the last chain securing the container when the support holding the front end collapsed, allowing the container to roll forward and crush the worker, who was still crouched down from releasing the chain.

Those involved with investigating the incident, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the ILA, the stevedore, and the Seaboard Victory's operator reported that the braking system that was supposed to control the container was inoperative and the chassis' landing gear support struts were defective.

Port Safety for Florida Longshore and Harborworkers

The ILA recommends that dock workers take the following precautions on the job to help reduce on-the-job injuries and fatalities:

Stay focused at all time while working - being distracted causes accidents
Be on the lookout for potential hazards or spots where accidents could happen
Take adequate time when doing tasks to do them safely and properly
Anticipate your own moves and the moves of other workers
Know and comply with the government's mandatory safety rules for the industry

Working on or near a ship is a dangerous job. Many are hurt and killed while doing so each year — often through no fault of their own. If you have been injured while working on a port or ship, meet with a Florida maritime accidents attorney to discuss your situation and any compensation to which you may be entitled.

★★★★★

Carolyn Frank and her firm represented me on a workers compensation injury case, under the defense base act. She did a excellent job from the moment I contacted her until 3 years later the case was settled. Every benefit I was entitled too, Carolyn fought hard to secure. E-mails and phone calls were always returned promptly. Definitely 5 star rating. Daniel

I can't express how grateful I am for Elizabeth Estrada, attorney, and Elizabeth Cantin, secretary, for all the hard work in order to defend me in my time of need. My lawyer and secretary spent time explaining each step and what was to be expected. Because of this I felt a part of the whole process and understood what was going on. Thank you so much for all your hard work!  Nicole D.

Attorney Elizabeth Estrada did an amazing job representing one of my family members. She is knowledgeable, genuine, trustworthy, and one of the most hard working attorneys that I know. She was readily available to assist my family member throughout the entire process. I felt confident my family was in great hands. Krystine C.

 Carolyn is very professional. Honest since the beginning of the process till the end. She set up a game plan with you at the consultation and makes it happen. Peterlee G.

I would like to thank the staff of Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, P.A. The staff is professional. My attorney, Ronald Rodman, was responsive towards my email and a great advocate on my behalf for my car accident. I highly recommend this office. I hope that I will not get in a car accident again, but if I do, I'm calling Mr. Rodman. Orlando R.

Submit a Law Firm Client Review