sail boat

Getting Compensation After a Shipyard Accident

Shipyards can be dangerous places to work, as reported by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Any number of hazards can lead to shipyard accidents, from the use of dangerous tools and equipment to working in confined spaces.

You may be able to pursue damages from a liable party if the accident that led to your injuries occurred due to negligence. Liable parties may include:

  • Third-party shipowners
  • Third-party contracting companies
  • The shipyard owner/operator

Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

Get a Free Case Evaluation

Filing a Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) Lawsuit

The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) protects the rights of maritime workers, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Division of Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation (DLHWC).

Under this Act, maritime workers may sue liable parties to pursue damages for workplace accidents. Coverage from the LHWCA extends to those injured in a shipyard accident. If you were injured on the job, an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help you recover damages.

Shipyard Workers Covered by the Longshore Act

Typically, the LHWCA covers maritime workers who can be defined as “maritime employees.” According to this definition, a maritime employee:

  • Generally works on the repair or building of a ship
  • May help with loading/unloading (harbor workers)
  • Is also called a “longshore worker”

Why is it important to know how this federal law defines your job? This definition will affect how you file for damages.

Maritime Workers Not Covered by the LHWCA

If you do not fall under the definition of a maritime employee, you may have to file for compensation under the Jones Act instead of the LHWCA.

According to the DOL, the Jones Act covers those who work at sea, also called a “seaman.” A seaman also contributes to work on the ship, but unlike longshore or harbor workers, they may spend the majority of their time working aboard the vessel while on open waters.

Maritime Injury Cases vs. Workers’ Compensation Claims

Maritime employees and seamen alike do not have access to general U.S. workers’ compensation benefits—these funds are for land workers.

Instead, the LHWCA and the Jones Act allow maritime workers, including those harmed in shipyard accidents, to file for damages from workplace accidents. These laws cover workers’ compensation benefits, when they apply, as well as the right to file a lawsuit against a liable party for negligence. If you’re unsure which law may apply to your case, an Alexandria shipyard accident lawyer can help simplify this process for you.

Damages You May Recover for Shipyard Accident Injuries

When you are ready to file, you may be able to seek several different damages depending on the circumstances of the accident. Damages, or compensation, are meant to help you recover from your injuries and replace any income you may have lost due to the accident.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Workers’ compensation benefits for shipyard workers cover any wages you lose from the time the accident occurred until you recover and can return to work. This includes:

  • Salary/wages
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Employer-paid benefits, such as 401k earnings
  • PTO benefits

If you are expected to have an extensive recovery time, or if you suffer life-altering damage, you may be able to file for these damages separately in your injury lawsuit.

Medical Expenses

Typically, a third-party shipowner or contractor will have to pay for your medical care if they are found to be liable for the accident. Medical expenses vary greatly from one person to the next, but some typical medical costs in shipyard injury cases include:

  • Acute medical care costs
  • Follow-up care
  • Emergency medical assistance costs
  • Surgeries
  • X-rays and other tests or scans
  • Pain-reliever medication costs

Other Damages

Shipyard accidents can be devastating, potentially leading to permanent injuries that leave you with physical disabilities or impairments. Some people may lose loved ones to these incidents as well, leading to great pain and suffering for surviving family members. In cases like these, additional compensation may be available. Examples of other damages in shipyard injury cases include:

  • Mental anguish
  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Projected future medical expenses or loss of work

Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.

Eryn Laughlin is a good employee, we love her!

a
anonymous

Car Accident

Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. He...

Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. Her communication is clear, and she truly cares about delivering results. I couldn’t recommend her more highly!

M
Mimi

Lake Charles

Michelle Brouillette is always so pleasant whenever I call or stop by the office. She always has a smile on her face.

C
Christine G.

Toni is the absolute BEST!!!! Not only is she the best paralegal but she’s also the best person I know. She is so intelligent, knowledgeable, ca...

Toni is the absolute BEST!!!! Not only is she the best paralegal but she’s also the best person I know. She is so intelligent, knowledgeable, caring, and goes above and beyond for everyone in her life. She is a true gem! To know her is to love her!! Anybody would be lucky to have someone like Toni in their corner.

S
Sarah Jorden

Marksville

Mr. DC and Amber have always been available to answer my questions and concerns. I have never doubted that they were working on our side and have had ...

Mr. DC and Amber have always been available to answer my questions and concerns. I have never doubted that they were working on our side and have had our best interest and our well being as a priority. I would recommend them to friends and family. My case had some extenuating circumstances and they both worked diligently to help us. I am very thankful for their service and dedication to us.

M
Michel Lanclos

New Orleans

I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are gua...

I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are guaranteed to work hard on your case and get the outcome you deserve. Brittani C. is one of the most organized, thorough and helpful paralegals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. She keeps you informed and answers all your questions throughout the litigation process.

P
Patrick Conner

Baton Rouge

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions ...

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions and concerns, and her professionalism was top notch. Her phone etiquette, and calm and caring attitude was outstanding.

G
Gail

Baton Rouge

Over the past 3 years I have encountered one of the best Law Firms in Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers which have been handling my Lejeune Contaminated T...

Over the past 3 years I have encountered one of the best Law Firms in Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers which have been handling my Lejeune Contaminated Toxic Water Claim. Mr. John Chaillot has been instrumental in advising me on documentation, timelines, and all matters pertaining to my case. A true professional and appreciated. Thank you.

S
Stephan C.

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica wa...

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to every detail. She took the time to explain each step of the process, answered all of my questions thoroughly, and made sure I always felt supported and informed.
Her dedication and attention to detail were clear throughout, and it was evident she genuinely cared about achieving the best possible outcome. Thanks to Erica’s hard work and expertise, my case went smoothly and successfully.
I highly recommend Erica Ducote to anyone in need of a skilled, reliable, and compassionate paralegal. She truly goes above and beyond!

m
maddie jo

Marksville

Over 1,700 5-Star Reviews

Read More Testimonials

How an Alexandria Shipyard Accident Lawyer Can Help

After a serious accident, injured parties often want to get compensation as soon as possible to get on with their lives. Working with us can help you through this process, as our firm will handle all aspects of the financial recovery process when we represent you. A lawyer from our team will provide multiple services along the way, such as:

  • Determining the Liable Party: Whoever was at fault for the accident can be held liable if the court finds that they were negligent in some way, and this negligence led to your injuries. We know how to prove liability and will help you understand who may owe you compensation.
  • Keeping You Informed: Filing a lawsuit can be a confusing process, but our shipyard accident team can help you stay up to date. We will ensure you are always aware of any progress in your case and the next steps to take.
  • Offering Support and Advocacy: Working with our firm means you have access to constant legal advice and someone who will fight for fair compensation on your behalf.
branded accent

Reach Out to Laborde Earles Injury Lawyer for Help with a Maritime Injury Case

Are you ready to learn how to pursue compensation for your injuries? An Alexandria shipyard accident lawyer from our team can help. At Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, we have a proven track record in personal injury cases, with multiple million-dollar verdicts. Contact us today for your free consultation.

View More Articles Trusted Voices Sharing What Matters

Blog Louisiana Sets New Two-Year Statute of Limitations for Tort Claims

Now that Louisiana has set a new two-year statute of limitations on tort claims, injury victims will have more time to take legal action for...

Read Full Article
law statue

Blog Digger Earles Honored With Appointment to GLP-1 Plaintiff Steering Committee

In a significant victory for plaintiffs in the high-stakes multi-district GLP-1 litigation, renowned Lafayette personal injury lawyer Digger...

Read Full Article
big rig car accident

Blog $1,400,000 Settlement for Alexandria Woman in Car Accident

When it comes to being injured in a car accident, choosing the right attorney can be the difference between getting $1,400,000 in 9 months i...

Read Full Article
mardi gras beads

Blog Safety Tips to Help Stay Safe During Your Mardi Gras Celebration

Mardi Gras is a grand and celebratory holiday filled with parades, live music, picnics, and much more. From the crazy costumes to the colorf...

Read Full Article
two workers in orange suits

Blog $42,000,000 Settlement for Burn Victim in Plant Explosion

What our client thought would be a normal workday at the plant left him questioning whether or not he could fulfill his role as a father and...

Read Full Article
cars driving in the fog

Blog Were You Injured in a Super Fog Vehicle Accident in Louisiana?

Early Monday morning, October 23rd, a dense “super fog,” a rare weather condition created by the mix of smoke and fog, resulted in a tragic ...

Read Full Article

Guidance you can trust, from people who actually know.

View All FAQs View All Articles

Our Locations Find Your Local Office

Get Legal Help Today Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

25+ Attorneys Collaboration on every case

Call Anytime Speak to our local team 24/7

(318) 777-7777
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
Send Message
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (318) 777-7777.