Navigating Maritime Law: Hedge Copeland’s Expertise in Protecting Maritime Workers

Maritime law isn’t just a niche legal specialty—it’s a vital safeguard for thousands of workers across Mobile, where the maritime industry plays a major role in the local economy. With more than 16,000 maritime jobs within a 45-minute drive of Mobile and one in seven Alabama jobs tied to port activity, the region’s connection to the water runs deep. For those working on everything from offshore rigs and commercial boats to shipping vessels, understanding their rights under federal maritime law is critical—and that’s where the expertise of Hedge Copeland comes in.

A Landmark Victory for Maritime Workers

The Mobile-based law firm recently secured a $1.35 million victory in a maritime injury case against Exxon Mobil—a win that could have lasting implications for maritime workers across Alabama.

The case centered on a young man who was injured while attempting to transfer from a vessel to an offshore oil rig—a routine yet dangerous maneuver. Despite Exxon’s claims that the employee had been properly trained, evidence revealed that his “training” amounted to nothing more than making sure he could hold onto a rope for three seconds. Tragically, a mistimed swing resulted in the man’s knee being shattered when the vessel he was jumping onto collided with him, resulting in life-long injuries.

The legal battle that followed was complex. Maritime law, which governs incidents occurring on navigable waters, operates under distinct rules designed to protect seamen and other maritime workers. One key factor in the Exxon case was the “collateral source rule”, a principle in federal maritime law that prevents defendants from reducing damages by claiming the victim’s medical bills were paid by insurance. “That ruling was a major win for maritime workers,” explained Attorney Robert Hedge of Hedge Copeland. “It ensures that those injured on the water can receive full compensation without insurance payments being used to reduce their recovery.”

This outcome was especially significant because Alabama courts rarely handle maritime cases. “Most of these cases end up in Louisiana or Florida, so this decision marked a pivotal moment in affirming protections for Alabama’s maritime workforce,” Hedge added.

Know Your Rights—And Take Action

For maritime workers in Mobile, understanding their rights is key. Maritime law is different from traditional State workers’ compensation law.  In maritime cases,  injured maritime workers are entitled to damages over and above just having their medical bills covered – and can recover damages for past and future lost wages, permanent injuries, pain and suffering, and mental anguish.  And, in some cases, workers can recover punitive damages for especially egregious wrongful conduct.

One of the most important steps an injured maritime worker can take is to contact an attorney with experience in maritime law as soon as possible. “Maritime law is a highly specialized area, and getting a lawyer involved early is crucial,” Hedge explained. “There are strict deadlines and specific rights that seamen and other maritime workers have—and it is important to preserve all potential evidence relating to an injured seaman’s case.  If you wait too long, this crucial evidence can be lost, which can damage a worker’s case.”

Protecting Maritime Workers’ Rights

Hedge Copeland’s dedication to maritime cases is rooted in a deep understanding of the industry. “Maritime work is inherently dangerous,” Hedge said. “Whether you’re a crewman on  a vessel, working on an oil rig, or running a shrimping boat, you’re exposed to risks that can result in serious injury—or worse. That’s why federal maritime law exists—to ensure those workers are protected.”

Hedge Copeland’s commitment to their clients is evident in their hands-on approach. “We’re a small firm by design,” Hedge said. “That allows us to give every client personal attention. We don’t just prepare cases to settle like many other firms — we prepare every case for trial. For instance, in our Exxon case, we took depositions of witnesses and experts from all over the United States.  And in fact, one witness we deposed was actually working in South America.”

By being selective with their caseload, Hedge Copeland can dedicate the time, resources, and energy each case deserves. “Our clients aren’t just another file on our desk—they’re people whose lives and future is in our hands.,” Hedge said. “That’s why we put in the time to know every detail of their case and make sure they get the support they need.”

For Mobile residents, victories like this Exxon Mobil case underscore the importance of having experienced maritime lawyers close to home. The Port of Mobile, recently named one of the fastest-growing ports in the nation, is a powerful economic engine for the region. As maritime activity continues to expand, the need for skilled legal advocates becomes even more crucial. “If you work on the water, knowing your rights under maritime law can make all the difference in protecting your future,” Hedge emphasized. “We encourage anyone with questions about their rights to reach out to us. Whether it’s a recent injury, a concern about employer negligence, or just wanting to better understand your legal protections, we’re here to help.”

If you or a loved one has been injured in a maritime accident, contact Hedge Copeland today.