The Crew Care Team, working on behalf of a P&I Club, was involved in a tragic case where a seafarer suffered a fatal accident while disembarking a vessel by launch and fell into the water. The seafarer was declared dead upon arrival at the local hospital. The cause of the accident was suspected to be a heart attack resulting from the fall. This case study outlines the role and assistance provided by the Crew Care Team in response to this unfortunate incident.
How were we involved?
Upon being appointed by the P&I Club, the Crew Care Team promptly initiated the necessary actions to support the case. The team contacted a surveyor to conduct a thorough investigation and prepare a report to determine the cause of the accident. Given the severity of the incident, a lawyer was appointed to arrange witness statements and provide legal assistance to protect the interests of the Members involved.
The Crew Care Team took immediate steps to inform relevant authorities about their involvement in the case. They contacted the local hospital to advise them of their role and began discussions with the local Coroner’s office to initiate the necessary formalities required.
To ensure the dignified repatriation of the deceased seafarer, the Crew Care Team assigned the services of their international undertakers experienced in such matters. The Crew Care Team liaised with the Members who were in contact with the family and verified the details of the seafarer’s home country, as well as any religious requirements specific to the deceased and their family. With these details confirmed, the team proceeded with the required procedures to arrange the repatriation.
Since the deceased seafarer was a non-UK national and a family member were unable to travel to the UK to register the death, the Crew Care Team took the responsibility of attending an appointment with a local registry office. They registered the death on behalf of the seafarer and their family, ensuring the issuance of a Death certificate, which is crucial for legal and administrative purposes.
Once all the necessary documentation and formalities were in place, the Crew Care Team coordinated with their funeral directors to make flight bookings for the repatriation of the seafarer’s body to their home country. Simultaneously, they arranged for the personal belongings of the deceased seafarer to be safely couriered to the family, ensuring that the belongings were handled with care and sensitivity.
How our assistance is beneficial
The involvement of the Crew Care Team in this case proved invaluable for several reasons.
The team’s established relationships with local Coroners’ offices allowed them to initiate the necessary procedures promptly, minimising delays and ensuring a swift resolution.
The Crew Care Team recognised the emotional impact of such cases so made it a priority to update the Club and Members with any developments throughout the process. These regular updates ensured that the family felt supported and informed during a difficult time.
With their expertise in international repatriation procedures, the Crew Care Team’s funeral directors meticulously managed the necessary documentation and formalities. They executed the repatriation process with utmost care, dignity, and professionalism.
The Crew Care Team’s willingness to attend registry offices on behalf of the seafarer’s family in situations where they couldn’t be physically present relieved additional burdens during an already challenging period and ensure the repatriation is confirmed as quickly as possible.
In conclusion, the Crew Care Team demonstrated their comprehensive support and assistance capabilities in handling this personal injury case. Their swift actions, legal expertise, coordination with authorities, and compassionate approach.
Contact details:
crewcare@mcauslands.com
24/7 Contact Number: +44 (0) 1482 223 832
