Santa Maria, CA asked in Personal Injury and Admiralty / Maritime for California

Q: Who would take a case re: suing Port Hueneme Harbor Patrol for sinking my commercial vessel while under their control?

Vessel was impounded for no insurance. While in their slip, in front of their patrol window my vessel sunk due to their negligence. I was not allowed to maintain my vessel or check on it. I have voicemails, emails, and phone conversation recorded as proof of their fault.

2 Lawyer Answers
William John Light
William John Light
Answered
  • Santa Ana, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: You will have to file a Tort Claim with the County of Ventura with 6 months of the date of the loss. After that, your claim may be governed by the Jones Act (not sure about that), which requires a specialty attorney. Do a computer search for Jones Act attorneys in Ventura and you will be guided to the appropriate specialists to assess your case.

1 user found this answer helpful

Dale S. Gribow
Dale S. Gribow
Answered
  • Palm Desert, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: More info needed

Look for local negligence lawyer with possible Jones Act experience who will know how to file Government Tort claim that has to be filed within 6 months

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