What is an unseaworthiness claim?
If an unsafe condition aboard a vessel causes or contributes to an injury, then the injured party may be entitled to recovery under an unseaworthiness claim. A vessel owner owes an absolute duty to provide a seaworthy vessel to all who enter his vessel. This includes maintaining the safety of the whole of the vessel and all its appurtenances. Maintaining the safety of the vessel includes the duty to properly man, equip, and supply the vessel. Proper manning involves providing an adequate crew that is properly trained. The vessel should be adequately supplied and all equipment must be in safe working order. If a seaman is injured in a slip and fall accident as a result of a substance spilled on the deck, gangplank or any other vessel surface, he may have an unseaworthiness claim. Worn out ropes and lines may lead to an unseaworthiness claim. If the actions of an improperly trained employee causes or contributes to the injury of a seaman, he may be entitled to recovery for unseaworthines
