The LeadersIn Maritime Law

What Is a Hitch?

When a maritime worker goes offshore for a job, the time he or she spends offshore is referred to as a "hitch." This term is used to refer to an offshore worker's period of service; for example, it could be said that a worker is going on a nine-week hitch offshore. In the military, it might be said that a seaman has a three-year hitch in the Navy.

A hitch (or offshore work schedule) is extremely relevant to a maritime injury case for several reasons:

  • One, proving the dates an employee was working offshore is a crucial link in the liability chain, meaning that a worker's set hitch, if documented, will show he or she was on the vessel at the time of the incident at issue.

  • Two, the hitch and rate of pay will provide the foundation for a determination of the rate of pay for an injured offshore worker's maintenance and cure.

  • Third, if an employer has an employee work more hours than is legally allowed, a calculation of the hours worked during their set hitch can also be an important factor in a lawsuit.

A hitch is also important for personal reasons. Online scheduling tools, including apps, exist so workers can keep track of anniversaries, birthdays, and other important dates so they can plan their offshore work schedule.

Have you been injured while on your hitch?

During a hitch, an offshore worker will be asked to leave home for weeks or even months at a time. Unlike workers in other jobs where the work is spread out more evenly (ex: eight hours per day), maritime workers perform an enormous amount of work within a condensed period of time. This can put an enormous amount of strain on workers—leaving them fatigued, sore, and overworked, which can lead to injuries and accidents.

If you have been injured while working a hitch offshore, please call Arnold & Itkin today!

What is it Like To Work With Arnold & Itkin

Arnold & Itkin represented nearly a third of the crewmembers injured in the Deepwater Horizon explosion.

I encountered professionalism, understanding, compassion… lot of compassion. They really felt for what me and my wife were going through.
~ Deepwater Horizon Crew Member

Work with a lawyer who truly understands Maritime Law.

Because maritime law is so complex and so complicated, it is crucial that you work with an attorney who has an in-depth understanding of how it works and who has proven themselves in similar cases before.

Related Maritime Videos
  • Our founding partners have worked together for more than a decade.

  • To us, being a lawyer means more than just handling paperwork.

  • We know this a difficult time. Let us help.

  • Our firm isn’t afraid to take on the largest companies.

  • In a day and age where most lawyers do everything they can to avoid court, we are proven trial attorneys. We have a reputation for taking our cases to trial when necessary, which means our clients have a better chance of achieving the outcome they deserve.

  • Your choice in lawyer is potentially one of the most important decisions that you will make following a serious maritime accident. Make sure it is the right choice. Hire an attorney who has the experience to represent you well and the commitment to investing in your best interests—someone who you can trust.

Discuss Your Legal Rights & Options

Free Case Evaluation

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your email address.
  • Please enter your phone number.
  • Please make a selection.