Admiralty and Maritime law, Boating and Scuba Diving Accidents

In addition, we specialize in admiralty law, which is the body of law that regulates disputes, torts, and offenses that occur on navigable waters. Navigable waters are any waterways that can be used for interstate or foreign commerce, such as tidal waters, rivers, harbors, and canals. Issues covered by admiralty law can include, but are not limited to:

• Cruise ship and other serious boating accidents;
• Serious Injuries to crewmen and tourists aboard ships, fishing vessels, tour boats, and other vessels;
• Recreational, commercial and professional divers who have suffered accidents while diving, during decompression, or while in transit to or from the dive site. If you have been injured in a serious diving accident, we can help you find justice and compensation. As a long time certified PADI scuba diver himself  David Smith understands firsthand the unique hazards inherent in the enjoyment of this beautiful sport. But too often, sometimes as part of a diving charter, a resort vacation or ocean cruise package, novice divers are given minimal training and education, and then turned loose to fend for themselves. Some of the resulting injuries can include:
  • Nitrogen narcosis, or “the bends”
  • Air embolism
  • Type I and Type II decompression sickness
  • Neurological injuries, including brain damage due to anoxia or asphyxia
  • Drowning

If you’re a recreational diver who suffered an injury while diving, you might have a personal injury claim against the dive sponsor, the diving instructor, the hotel or resort or cruise ship operator, or another party. If your scuba diving accident occurred in navigable waters, or if you were transported across navigable waters to the dive site, federal admiralty jurisdiction might well cover your claim.