U.S. Coast Guard issues new anti-piracy requirements

The US Coast Guard updated anti-piracy guidelines for U.S. Flagged commercial vessels operating off the coast of Somalia.  All U.S.-flagged vessels must submit plans for combating terrorism and piracy that incorporate the guidelines by May 25.

The use of armed personnel while at sea might give rise to Jones Act negligence for failure to provide a "reasonably safe place to work" or other bases for finding negligence by the employer.  Further, it might result in a finding of unseaworthiness, creating claims against the vessel operator and against the vessel itself.

If you or someone you know has been injured due to a pirate attack, please contact SMSH, lawyers who have experience handling piracy cases at (800) 282-2122.