HOUSTON, Texas – A crash involving an American oil tanker off the coast of Yorkshire has left at least 32 crew members injured. The incident occurred early March 10 when the Portuguese-flagged container ship Solong struck the anchored U.S. tanker Stena Immaculate, triggering explosions onboard. The tanker, managed by Crowley, was transporting jet fuel at the time of impact.
A statement from Crowley confirmed that all crew members had been accounted for. Emergency response teams transported critically injured mariners to Princess Diana Hospital, while authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the accident.
Given the international nature of the incident—an American vessel hit by a Portuguese ship in UK waters—questions have arisen about liability and legal jurisdiction. Attorney Matt Shaffer of Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP emphasized that maritime laws allow for litigation in the United States.
“This incident, while occurring in international waters, can and will be litigated in the United States,” said Shaffer. “Both vessels are likely covered under a Protection and Indemnity (P&I) policy to address losses. Our firm has handled major maritime claims, including the Deepwater Horizon, El Faro, and Globetrotter 2 incidents.”
Shaffer noted that Crowley Maritime, the operator of Stena Immaculate, may file a limitation of liability in federal court in an effort to restrict its financial exposure, while also potentially shifting responsibility to the owners and operators of Solong.
The firm encourages affected mariners to seek immediate medical attention and legal guidance to understand their rights and options for compensation. Our firm has an extensive reach throughout the country, with experience handling cases in many cities nationwide.
With various international parties and insurance policies involved, meticulous legal investigation may be needed to help define the rights and liabilities of each party in litigation.
Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP maritime accident attorneys have successfully represented maritime workers for more than 50 years. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit www.smslegal.com or contact Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP directly.
Since 1964, Schechter, Shaffer & Harris LLP has been helping people secure settlements and judgments for their pain and suffering. The firm has represented clients whose claims were often turned down by insurers but deserved rightful compensation from insurers and their employers. The law firm represents clients across numerous accident-related cases, including those related to maritime accidents, injuries at non-subscriber employer work sites, and other personal injuries.
Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP - Accident & Injury Attorneys
3200 Travis #300 Houston, TX 77006
(832) 551-1056
mshaffer@smslegal.com
http://www.smslegal.com/
Press Contact : Matthew Shaffer
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