Our Lawyers Explain Common Reasons for Maritime Medical Consultations
As a seaman, you are exposed to a variety of hazards that can lead to both acute injuries and chronic illnesses. You can take every precaution to prevent an illness or injury, but you can’t eliminate the risk. You can, however, be prepared and know what to do if you’re hurt or sick.
If you get hurt or sick at sea, seeking a maritime medical consultation and legal assistance is essential. Both may make a significant difference in your recovery. The New York maritime accident lawyers at Hofmann & Schweitzer understand the unique challenges seamen face. Whether you are dealing with a severe injury or a persistent health complaint, our experienced legal team is here to ensure you receive the medical care and legal support you deserve.
Common Maritime Injuries and Illnesses
Seamen are vulnerable to various health risks. Some of the most common injuries and illnesses that may require a medical consultation are:
- Respiratory complaints. Due to the close quarters and changing weather conditions, seamen often suffer from respiratory issues such as the common cold, sore throat, cough, flu, and sinusitis.
- Gastrointestinal complaints. The rigors of maritime life can lead to gastrointestinal problems like heartburn and diarrhea, which can be exacerbated by stress and limited access to fresh food.
- Back pain. The physical demands of working on a vessel can result in chronic back pain, often due to heavy lifting and long hours of standing.
- Skin problems. Skin rash and other dermatological issues are common.
- Oral and dental complaints. Limited access to dental care can lead to oral health problems, which are often neglected until they become severe.
- Burns. Working with machinery and in kitchens increases the risk of burns, which can vary in severity and potentially cause permanent damage.
- Open wounds. Cuts and lacerations from equipment and manual labor are frequent on ships. These injuries can result from sharp tools, machinery, or accidents involving ropes and cables. Open wounds pose a risk of blood loss and an elevated chance of infection.
- Fractures. The unstable and sometimes hazardous working environment can lead to broken bones. Fractures can range from minor breaks that require immobilization to complex fractures needing surgical intervention.
- Sprains. Slippery and wet surfaces can cause slips, trips, and falls. These common accidents can often result in sprains and strains of the hands, wrists, knees, and feet.
- Foreign body accidents. Splinters, metal shavings, and other foreign objects can cause injuries that require medical attention.
If you suffer from any of these medical conditions, you may benefit from a prompt medical diagnosis and treatment plan. Timely, adequate medical care is crucial for effective recovery and to prevent minor issues from escalating into serious health problems.
Today, accessing a maritime medical consultation is easier than ever. Even if you are in a remote area far from a medical office, you may be able to access maritime telemedicine. Immediate medical attention through a telemedicine appointment could make a significant difference in your recovery by providing early diagnosis and intervention. However, in some cases in-person medical care on land remains essential.
How The Lawyers at Hofmann & Schweitzer Can Help
If you are a seaman who has suffered an injury or illness while on duty, the maritime accident lawyers at Hofmann & Schweitzer are here to provide the legal support you need. Our experienced attorneys understand maritime law and are dedicated to helping you secure compensation and ensure you receive the appropriate medical care.
Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we are committed to fighting for your rights. Our case results and testimonials demonstrate our success in getting injured or ill seamen the compensation they deserve. As our maritime injury client Kevin B. says, “I sustained a serious back injury when I fell off an unsafe gangway on a barge. I consulted with other lawyers who told me I could not pursue a lawsuit. I met with Tim Schweitzer and he agreed to handle my lawsuit. I was extremely happy with the result.”
