Fuel leaking into the water from a vessel could spell disaster for many reasons, including:

• Leaving the vessel stranded
• Putting the crew in danger of injury or death if the boat catches on fire or explodes
• Damaging the environment

Recently, firefighters had to be called in to keep a refueling barge from sinking or leaking fuel in Long Beach, California, after the vessel began taking on water. According to KNBC-TV, the barge serves as a refueling station for the Catalina Express, a ferry that takes passengers across the 20-mile channel between Santa Catalina Island and Long Beach.

The firefighter crew first responded to the scene around 11:30 p.m. on a Wednesday. Upon arriving, the crew found the barge leaning to one side in the water. They turned off the barge’s diesel fuel flow in attempt to prevent fuel from leaking into the channel. In addition, a yellow containment boom was placed in the water around the barge to keep fuel from spreading if fuel did leak from the vessel.

As of this report, authorities were still checking the barge for leaks and trying to determine what caused it to begin taking on water.

Who Can I Call If I Was Injured in a Barge Accident?

If you or a loved one was hurt while working on a barge, we may be able to help you bring those responsible to justice and get you and your family the money you need for lost income and medical expenses.

For more information about how our maritime trial lawyers can help you or to talk with us about your situation confidentially, give us a call today to schedule a free consultation.

Latti & Anderson LLP – Nationwide Maritime Attorneys

Source: http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/Long-Beach-Catalina-Express-Fuel-Barge-280167982.html