Vessel Accidents

Vessel accidents.

Do not permit officers to make entries in the logbook haphazardly. If in doubt about whether to make an entry or not, a safe rule is, if it happened, enter it in the log—but not until after it has been roughed out, so that proper sequence can be followed.

The reports should be in detail no matter how minor the accident, bearing in mind that the recipients will be many miles away and all they can go by are your reports.

If special reports are to be filled out, such as personal injury, Coast Guard, company forms and others, they should be made up as soon as possible after the occurrence, and all the questions on the form answered. If a question is not applicable, draw a line through the space. It is advisable to make a rough copy first.

Bear in mind that although reports are usually made out by another person appointed by you, you are responsible for them and you should therefore check all reports before signing them and keep a copy of each for the vessel's file.

The statements are then typed and the typed copies signed by the witnesses. This is particularly necessary in accidents or injuries to crew members. The witness making the statement should be given one of the typed copies. (See Shipboard Injuries and Illnesses, this chapter.)

After an accident to the vessel, your company attorney may come on board (make certain he represents your company) to take statements from witnesses. If any seaman asks you what he is to say, tell him simply to tell the truth.

Through a misguided sense of loyalty a seaman will sometimes make an untrue statement under the illusion that he is helping you or the vessel. Such statements, if found on cross examination to be false, will harm your company's case.

Reports and statements for the company's Insurance Department should be made up on any of the following casualties, accidents or losses. The list is by no means complete, as other accidents may occur. A copy of any Coast Guard form that is made out and a copy of notice of liability served on another vessel or received from any source should be included.

If surveyor's reports are made they should also be included.. However, it is usual for surveyors to send their reports to the home office or local agent. A list of all the reports, statements, etc., should be drawn up and sent in with them. Check off all the items before sealing the envelope.

When an injury, however slight, to a crew member, passenger, stevedore or other person on the vessel, is caused by alleged defective material, gear or equipment of any kind, whether in the deck, engine or steward department, it is important, if at all practicable, that the defective part be labeled and carefully preserved as evidence.