Maritime Risk Intelligence Blog

Somali Piracy Case Study: Lessons Learned From Handling the Captain Phillips Case

Written by gCaptain | November 28, 2023 at 9:00 AM

In 2009, the Maersk Alabama's capture by Somali pirates thrust the dangers encountered by maritime workers into the global spotlight. This high-profile incident, pivotal in teaching us about seafarers' risks and their legal rights, highlighted the importance of their protection.

The ship's ordeal revealed how Captain Phillips' decisions imperiled the crew, leading to a dangerous standoff. The successful rescue highlighted the perils faced by seafarers and underscored the significance of laws like the Jones Act in safeguarding their rights.


The Jones Act, enacted in 1920, played a crucial role in defending the rights of maritime workers involved in the Maersk Alabama incident. It allowed injured seamen to seek compensation for injuries resulting from employer negligence. Representing nine of the brave crew members, VB Attorneys pursued legal action to secure the compensation these seafarers deserved after enduring a harrowing ordeal.

Their investigation uncovered discrepancies in Phillips' and Hollywood's portrayals of events, finding the company guilty of endangering its employees.

This case profoundly shaped VB Attorneys' approach to representing injured seamen, emphasizing the dangers of maritime work and the necessity of adequate legal protection. They passionately advocate for their clients, facing corporate giants to ensure just compensation.

The lessons gleaned from this landmark case continue to guide their unwavering commitment to seeking justice for injured seamen. For those injured while working at sea, VB Attorneys offers legal guidance and support to uphold their rights and secure rightful compensation.

Source:gCaptain