Four Crewmembers Taken to Hospitals with Burn Injuries

The StarNews reported that four crewmembers aboard THE STAR FRASER had to be taken to a hospital with chemical burns after the 614-foot freighter docked the state port in Wilmington, North Carolina. The individuals suffered the burns during a chemical leak aboard the ship while it was at sea. THE STAR FRASER was en route to Texas.

Wilmington Fire Department Chief David Hines said the crewmembers became sick following the spill of a chemical used in the production of adhesives aboard the cargo ship 10 days ago. The spill was contained to the ship and had been cleaned up before it reached port, although fire and hazardous materials crews were initially summoned under the impression that the spill had occurred in port. A Coast Guard spokesman said the four people with burn injuries took a cab to New Hanover Regional Medical Center after THE STAR FRASER docked.

Burn injuries not only involve extreme physical pain, but can also cause numerous psychological and financial issues. Burn victims may have to undergo reconstructive surgeries and painful skin grafts, and disfigurement can lead to depression and impact the individual’s ability to work again. Latti & Anderson LLP represents has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for such clients, including a $4.5 million settlement for a woman who sustained burns to over 60 percent of her body and was out of work for two years.

An employer could be liable for burns that were the result of defective or improperly maintained equipment as well as crewmember negligence, and you can learn more about the rights of maritime workers and their families under the Jones Act by visiting our website. If you or a loved one sustained burn injuries while working at sea, use the form on this page to let our Jones Act attorneys review your case or contact our firm at (800) 392-6072 to set up a free initial consultation.

Latti & Anderson LLP – Jones Act lawyers