California Maritime & Longshore Accident Lawyers
Representing Workers After an Accident at Sea
The litigation of personal injury and wrongful death cases under maritime law is procedurally different from the presentation of similar injury claims in land-based accidents. In many cases, the differences favor the plaintiff. Our understanding of the Jones Act, the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, and other maritime statutes can help you and your family benefit from these advantages.
Common Accidents That Occur on Cargo Ships and at Sea
Our familiarity with the challenges of complex accident litigation, together with our understanding of federal maritime law, can represent a significant advantage in recovering the compensation you need in a maritime accident. We have experience handling personal injury claims on behalf of clients in maritime accident cases.
These types of at-sea accidents can include the following:
- Capsized vessel accidents
- Loss of a deckhand, steward, or officer overboard
- Injuries caused by the vessel's unseaworthiness
- Ship repair and maintenance accidents above or below the waterline
- Injuries caused by the negligence of an owner, captain, skipper, or pilot
- Accidents resulting from falling overhead objects or poorly secured equipment
- Cruise ship accidents and assaults involving passengers, seamen, stewards, and officers
- Harbor accidents involving tugs, barges, tour boats, commuter ferries, or other vessels
- Waterfront accidents involving longshoremen, freight handlers, crane operators, or other terminal workers
Experienced California Maritime Lawyers
Whether the injury in your case took place on a supertanker, a whale-watching tour, or a fishing trawler, our lawyers can analyze your case and identify the most promising ways to maximize its value. At the same time, our carefully limited caseload allows us to give you all of the prompt and personalized attention your situation requires.
For a free consultation about your legal options in any personal injury or wrongful death claim in a maritime accident, contact The McClellan Law Firm for a free consultation by calling (619) 215-1488.
For over 30 years, The McClellan Law Firm has been dedicated to helping clients across California secure justice and protect their futures. Founded by renowned attorney Craig R. McClellan, the firm has earned a reputation for excellence and integrity in the legal field. With decades of experience and a commitment to achieving results, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional representation and unwavering support to every client we serve.
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Craig McClellan is a member of the Inner Circle of Advocates, an invitation-only group of the top 100 plaintiff trial lawyers in the United States. -
Craig McClellan was voted Lawyer of the Year for Product Liability Litigation by Best Lawyers for 2025.
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The firm earned a Tier 1 ranking in Personal Injury in the 2025 list of the Best Law Firms.
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Craig McClellan earned one of the top 10 medical malpractice settlements in California, securing a $9,000,000 settlement for a client.
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Craig McClellan & Conor Hulburt earned one of the top 10 premises liability settlements in California, securing a $3,175,850 settlement for a client.
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Craig McClellan has been selected to the list of Super Lawyers every year since 2007, and earned the most votes of ANY lawyer for 2019 in San Diego.
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Craig McClellan was voted Lawyer of the Year for Product Liability Litigation by Best Lawyers for 2019.
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Craig McClellan is listed as one of America’s Top 100 High Stakes Litigators in Business Litigation, Personal Injury, and Product Liability.
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Attorney McClellan has a 10/10 “Superb” rating, the highest rating an attorney can receive from Avvo.
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The firm has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, the highest possible rating offered by the organization.
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Attorney McClellan is a member of the Consumer Attorneys of San Diego, and previously served on its Board of Directors.
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Attorney Craig McClellan was named as one of the “Best Attorneys” by the Los Angeles Times.
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Attorney Craig McClellan was named one of the “Best Lawyers” by San Diego Metro.
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Attorney Craig McClellan was named one of the Top Lawyers in San Diego in Business Litigation by San Diego Magazine.
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Craig McClellan has been named among the Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers, which honors the nation’s top advocates.
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“I swear they work 24/7! And most importantly, we knew that they truly cared about us and the outcome. They fought for our family and have given us the piece of mind that our son's healthcare will always be covered.”S.P.
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“We will NEVER forget what you did for us Craig. We are FOREVER GRATEFUL.”K.V.
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“We wouldn’t be here, in this moment of life without the kindness and professionalism of you all and how you went to bat for us! Eternally grateful!”A.K.